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ℭhristmas has always been my favourite time of year, no doubt because it’s a whole season when a conscious effort is made by so many to make everything bright and filled with light. Even if the religious backing for the season doesn’t resonate with you, there is something about the sparkling lights and the camaraderie that sparks moments of much-needed good cheer.
On this first day of our 12 Days of Christmas, here's a friendly reminder that this is the one time of year when acts of giving and receiving are officially sanctioned by the warm, fuzzy feeling that seems to trail behind us everywhere.
Stevie Wonder & Andra Day — "Someday at Christmas"
Paradoxically, it is often at this time of year, as it draws to a close, that we reflect on unfulfilled needs and the troubles that plague our world. Yet in a season blessed with warmth and compassion, the gaiety, anticipation, and promise of kindness and generosity repeatedly work their magic, inviting us to join in the cheer.
No one would blink an eye—even if you're not a believer—if you chose to set aside your usual convictions and allow yourself to welcome the joy this season can bring.
On the 1st Day of Christmas, my wish for you is true
Do something for yourself you never thought you would do!
Maybe the decorations, children's smiles, and call to come together should last all year, but they are what create the heartwarming spirit of this season. Take it in. Consider practicing the universal "Golden Rule" (a.k.a. Ethics of Reciprocity) and spread your own message of Joy, Peace, Hope, and Love.
The Gift of Music
Mind if I share the gift I give myself around this time of year —sometimes starting months before?
Johnny Mathis reminds me that hope is ever alive with When a Child Is Born. Bing Crosby and cutie patootie David Bowie warm my heart with Peace on Earth and The Little Drummer Boy. The rousing Hallelujah Chorus never fails to open my eyes, and watching joy bestowed on others has become a cherished tradition. And love—don't we all love the Jackson Five and their message, fitting for any day of the year?
When a Child Is Born
Hope
Peace on Earth / Little Drummer Boy
Peace
The Hallelujah Chorus
Joy
Give Love On Christmas Day
Love
The Little Drummer Boy
A Humble Gift
The Little Drummer Boy
My mother's special gift to me
No matter where I am, whenever I hear the opening notes of The Little Drummer Boy, I smile. My mother loved this carol—a story of a child born into poverty who shared what he had: his drum and the gift of music. It reminds me of a remarkable woman who, despite humble beginnings, shared her talents freely and quietly, with grace.
I wish you the quiet and peace of your favourite Christmas song, my Sweet Mama.
Always in my thoughts.
I will forever love you.
My hero.
Discuss this article
Mama was a very sweet person and had a very kind personality. I love Mama.
Anyhoos... wanted to add a little note that the person who posted the Bing and Bowie video commented.
Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy is a Christmas song with an added counterpoint performed by David Bowie and Bing Crosby. "Little Drummer Boy" is a Christmas song written in 1957, while the "Peace on Earth" tune and lyrics were added to the song especially for Bowie and Crosby's recording. The song was recorded on 11 September for Crosby's 1977 television special, Bing Crosby's Merrie Olde Christmas. The pair exchanged dialogue about what they do for Christmas before singing "Little Drummer Boy" with a new counterpoint with original lyrics written for the special, "Peace on Earth". Bowie's appearance has been described as a "surreal" event, undertaken at a time that he was "actively trying to normalise his career" Crosby died on October 14, just over a month after recording the special. In the U.S., the show aired on 30 November 1977 on CBS.