By Meanne M. Mijares
The Christmas countdown has already begun as Yuletide songs fill up the cold windy air, making it so much more fun and exciting as we joyfully anticipate the coming celebration of such an important occasion.
When I was a child, one of the songs that I got so accustomed listening to is the Christmas Alphabet by Dickie Valentine. I also enjoyed singing it with my family and friends with matching dance steps and fun props like in a musical production number. Now as a grown up, that all changed when a good friend from college sent me a Hallmark Christmas greeting post card 30 years ago that contained a special poem that made me truly appreciate another kind of Christmas alphabet that is timeless which I still treasure to this day and in the many years to come:
C is for the Christ Child who was sleeping on the hay (instead of the candy trimmed around the Christmas tree)
H is for the Heavenly Host who worshipped Him that day (although happiness with all the family is always relevant)
R is for the Radiance on Mary’s most holy face (instead of the reindeer prancing by the window pane)
I is for the lowly inn-a poor and humble place (instead of the icing on the cake as sweet as sugar cane)
S is for the Star that shone to guide the shepherds there (instead of the stocking hanging on the chimney wall)
T is for the Travellers who brought Him treasures rare (instead of the toys beneath the tree so tall)
M is for the Manger where He laid His little head (instead of the mistletoe where everyone is kissed)
A is for the Angels who hover around His bed (not just the angels who make up the Christmas list for they can do so much more than that)
S is for the Savior who brought peace and hope to earth (instead of the Santa who makes every kid his pet)
On the wondrous night we celebrate Jesus’ birth.
– Author Unknown
No offense to Buddy Kaye and Jules Loman, the composers of this song, but I do believe that this Christmas Alphabet poem should be learned by everyone from all walks of life by heart to remind us of the significance of this season as we find joy and meaning long after it is over. May we include this meaningful Christmas Alphabet as we reflect and prepare for the season because it is indeed more than Santa Claus, Winter Wonderland, Christmas bonuses, holiday parties and the exchange of gifts.
Let us never forget what this wonderful celebration of love and hope is all about!
*** The author is a professional events planner and a children’s book writer.
