Written by Joanne Melton, from the Village Church.
Because Christmas is the time of year we celebrate the birth of Christ, as a light in a dark world we light our trees in recognition…”
Many of us, as our family has over the years, decorate more than one Christmas tree. I would like to share the story of our little, but brightly shining Christmas tree. We place this tree in a very prominent place for everyone to see. Almost twenty years ago, an idea was presented to our family about a “Thanksgiving Tree.” Please do not worry, I have my holidays in correct order. To me and my husband, Robert, the focal point of our life together was and is our family. What began as a suggestion from a dear friend has become a treasured and important focal point for the beginning of the Christmas season. When our very first grandchild, Harrison, was born, a friend gifted us a precious picture of him hanging from a sweet ribbon in the most miniature of picture frames. At that very moment, The Melton Family Tree was born! Every mother, father, cousin, grandmother, and grandfather all share their special place tucked between the branches of this small but mighty tree! Each year a new picture, in new picture frames are chosen and placed in their special spot. Then, the magic happens when all are circled around, and the lights are on. We look at the new pictures and compare them with ones from previous years. “Look at so and so.” “Is this Uncle T?” The conversation never ceases. There are giggles and pointing and even effort to hide certain pictures. This little tree has become the light and life of our family and the love, peace and joy we share together … and so, to my dear friend, Mary, thank you for the “little light” you shined on our Christmas Tree and the joy you brought with it. Merry Christmas!
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