Experiencing the Wonder of Christmas

In past years, I worked a part-time job during the holidays in addition to my full-time job, which left me too tired to enjoy the season.  Not this year!  So far, it’s been a blessed, joy-filled time spent with people I love.  First, I was reunited with my sister after 20 years of being apart.  This is a HUGE blessing from God!  We began the holiday fun by attending a parade together.  What is it about a parade that makes you feel like a kid again?  Next, my Hindi teacher Santosh, her daughter Shubha, and I attended a “Peter Pan” play.  My favorite actress, aka my niece Brooke, was in the production as one of the Lost Boys.  The next event, and the highlight of the season thus far, was an outdoor Nativity drama.  Santosh, Shubha, her friend Isabel, and I attended the 13 scene walk-through drama.  For Santosh, it was the first time seeing/hearing the Nativity story in its entirety.  When we remove the commercialism of Christmas and return to the simplicity of Jesus’ birth, it regains its original amazement and wonder.  To think that God Himself, who created the heavens and the earth, came to earth as a human baby, all because of His vast love for ME (and all of mankind)...well, it never ceases to fill me with joy.  Isabel said it best, “Tonight was an amazing night!”  Yes, Isabel, the night of Jesus’ birth was indeed the most wonderful and amazing night EVER!

My sister Jennifer and me.

Captain Hook and Peter Pan.

Me and my niece Brooke.

Me and Santosh, my Hindi teacher.

Shubha and her friend Isabel.

Shepherds at the outdoor Nativity drama.

Three Wise Men visiting baby Jesus in Nativity drama.

Santosh and I enjoying the Christmas season.