Something to Remember this Holiday Season...

Although his flight is delayed, he remains calm. It has been nearly two years since he has been home. He stands proud in his uniform; an ever pressing reminder of the services he provides for his country. His sacrifice; intangible, for the freedom he grants his loving wife and newborn, keep him strong. Nervously, he flips through a magazine gazing incessantly at his watch. Outside, the clouds reveal the whisper of the first snowfall. December 23rd.

She too, watches the snow fall as she warms her tired feet by the fire. In her hand, she holds a letter from her high school sweetheart. His kind words brings a smile to her face but she knows he would not be home for Christmas this year. Although loneliness has set in, she remains hopeful as she places tender kisses on their new born son.

Alas, he hears the echo of his zone number being called through the static of the intercom. Busy strangers rush to the flight deck ticket in hand. A surge of excitement escapes him as he smiles to the flight attendant. "Happy Holidays Soldier", she gushes with a wink of an eye. 

At the stroke of midnight, she is suddenly awoken by a knock on the door. Startled, she wraps her flannel robe around her body and stumbles down the dark hallway. Through the glass, she makes out the slender shadow of her husband. Her somber walk becomes a sprint as she unlocks the dead bolts throwing herself into his arms. "Merry Christmas Baby", he whispers as he kisses her for the first time in two years.

I once read that:

"The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree:
The presence of a happy family all wrapped in each other."
Burton Hills

By nature, we long for the newest technology, the designer handbags in the window, or even the expensive vacation we have been dreaming about. Yes, we are all guilty of becoming engulfed within our extensive wish lists from time to time. But what about the intangible gifts we present to each other throughout the holiday season? What about the thoughtful gestures such as the soldier surprising his wife by coming home for the holidays? Presence alone, can be the greatest gift of all.

As we count down the days until Christmas, I encourage you present a gift you can give a loved one that they will not only cherish, but remember for the rest of their lives.