I don't put up outdoor Christmas lights. It seems like too much work for such a short time, and besides I wouldn't know where to begin. But I appreciate those that do.
My neighbors, Sally and Bud put up lights every year. Every year I watch as he drags out all the boxes of lights, and stands in the cold and sometimes even the rain hanging them. It takes him most of the day to finish, but when he's done they stand back and appraise his work while he makes small adjustments until everything is perfect. Every year I stand by and watch, waiting for that moment when he throws the light switch and the house is ablaze in beautiful splendor.
Usually right after Thanksgiving Bud will put his Christmas lights up, but this year Thanksgiving came and went and no lights. I was beginning to think they were going to forego adding their personal touch to the neighborhood. After all, he is getting older and it can't be easy work. It saddened me because I looked forward to those lights. Unknowingly and very subtly over the years they had taken on a special meaning, and I looked forward to Bud's lights. They cheered up an otherwise dreary neighborhood for a few short weeks, and the spirit of Christmas was reborn each year.
But Sunday morning found Bud dragging out the boxes and ladder, and even though it rained most of the day he diligently hung his Christmas lights. And I secretly watched. Waiting for "that" moment that would make me feel like a kid again. As always I was not disappointed! Suddenly the whole neighborhood lit up, and I felt that holiday lighthearted feeling once again!
Last night I took the girls out, and while I waited for them to finish their "business" I stood gazing over at Bud's light show that dazzled before my eyes. What a magnificent sight! Now it really FELT like Christmas and suddenly it didn't feel so cold and damp outside.
What a wonderful way for Bud and Sally to spread the Christmas cheer through the neighborhood and to keep the spirit of Christmas lit inside of us all!
3 comments:
I hope you tell Bud and Sally how much you enjoy their Christmas time lights.
Hey sis those were my thoughts exactly as I was reading the story. Your neighbors must feel that way about your lights too every year, they are always so beautiful.
That is very sweet...I remember my dad hanging lights...and especially going out looking at lights...some homes do so so beautifully. And here in Texas, its often one of the few REAL signs of the season.
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