The Life of Christmas
Christmas is indeed the most joyous time in the modern calendar. It beckons us all to stop and honor life. To reflect on the birth of a Child, a Savior. Life is precious and Christmas is the ideal opportunity to celebrate.
Perhaps, some may feel otherwise. That life isn’t so great. Its demands and pretense weigh heavy on us. Or we find that Christmas is merely a time when old wounds resurface. One sympathizes with those who struggle during this time.
But take a moment and consider what Christmas is about. Birth and Life.
There is a certain solace in birth. For we are “sown to bloom.” The infant is sheer potential awaiting fulfillment.
Yet, a completely helpless life.
Just imagine for a moment, the arrival of a newborn. Being born is itself a most frightening adventure. Secured in what must be the most comfortable place on earth, in the womb, the child is thrust into being with a crescendo. Voila, the child is born!
There certainly can be nothing more disconcerting than entering this world. A newborn baby is the most glorious yet powerless creature there can be, without someone caring for him or her. Totally and utterly vulnerable.
No defenses. No self-preservation. Entirely dependent on whomever would welcome the child and take it in and care for it. Yet, the newborn possesses the one thing we all crave for, fight for…life.
And so it is with death. We are utterly and entirely vulnerable to it. We resist its persistent claw and long for release from it.
If only there was life again, anew!
That is what the Newborn of Christmas proposed through His life, death and resurrection. That indeed, there is life beyond death. Incomprehensible, save that He paved the wave through His own sacrifice.
Our travels plans had been secured for a December 2nd departure. We readied ourselves to fly to Memphis via London and Chicago. Sean’s father was ill and we secured the earliest flight possible to be with him.
As we packed bags that Friday, December 1st evening, a phone call confirmed that we would not see Donald Robinson, my father-in-law, again. He had passed.
With a heavy heart, Sean and I went into mode of operation to see if we could get out of Luxembourg any sooner.
As we boarded our flight to London, we received notification that our connecting flight from London to Chicago had been cancelled due to “freezing fog”. What?!
It seemed as if nature itself was conspiring against us.
We were provided hotel accommodation in London for one night, via a bus journey, together with four hundred other guests in similar situations. A confirmation for better weather and onward flight(s) out the next morning was our reward.
Rather than wallowing in disappointment, we made a collective decision to adapt our plans. We dispensed with our luggage and got on a train to London, carrying only Dad’s adored memories and captivating anecdotes within us.
We celebrated Dad for his life of eighty-eight years!
By immersing ourselves in the jubilation of the holiday lights, we were able to create a special moment of connection and shared experience - life!
As we strolled through Mayfair and Regent, we barely noticed the frigid temperatures and instead marveled at the breathtaking displays of colorful lights and festive decorations. The city was a symphony of shimmering splendor, and its enchantment brought a glimmer of exultation.
Each street corner, flickering light seemed to trigger a story or laughter fused with tears as we reminisced about dad’s life.
“Gather around kids, it’s time to bring the magic to life”, as dad would string up the lights, “they bring smiles to faces”.
You see, Dad was an architect, a contractor and a home builder, a multifaceted role that involves both technical expertise and creativity. The fact that his anecdotes were filled with testimonials from people who lived in the homes he built is a testament to his skill and the satisfaction of his clients.
The well-crafted homes and aesthetically pleasing spaces he built became havens where families could thrive. A beautiful legacy that speaks to his dedication, passion and skills, his ability to bring dreams through his work will continue to be valued by the families who live in those homes.
With every step we took in what seemed to be an endless journey, the weight of our grief gradually lightened. Laughter mingled with tears as we recalled humorous incidents and heartwarming moments shared with dad. It was as though his spirit was guiding us, reminding us to find joy even in the midst of sadness. It allowed us to find solace which can be healing and a way of strength.
Dad had a deep penchant for travel. Everywhere during his travels, he made it a point to buy gifts for his kids and grandkids, albeit simple, but nonetheless meant to shape their interests and aspirations.
With a twinkle in his eye, “these gifts are to inspire you to look for adventure in all your travels”!
Alas, our final flight from London to Dallas departed on time, as did the connecting flight to Memphis. And then, connecting with family - more life and grief!
In the following two weeks, we quickly learned how to support Sean’s Mom and his siblings. To be able to dive into planning for services, medical reports, transition for family members to various assisted living and care facilities as such. It was a steep learning curve.
As we navigated through the grief together, we found camaraderie in their presence and the shared experience of loss. Together, the siblings worked hard, each task was completed with respect and dignity with consideration to all involved. We were not alone in our grief.
The Memorial Service was a poignant and elegant tribute to Dad. Every detail was carefully planned to honor his life and memory.
The obituary, written with love and reverence, captured the essence of his character, accomplishments, and the impact he had on the lives of those around him. It served as a testament to his journey and the legacy left behind.
The heartfelt eulogy, delivered by my husband, shared personal anecdotes and beloved memories, painting a vivid picture of the life shared. Tears mingled with smiles as we celebrated the achievements, unique quirks and the profound love shared with all.
The pastor’s message provided comfort to those in attendance. Words of wisdom and reassurance were spoken, offering a sense of peace amidst the pain of loss.
The atmosphere was adorned with beautiful floral arrangements, carefully chosen to reflect dad’s favorite colors. The décor was understated but elegant, creating an ambiance of tranquility and reverence.
Family members from near and far gathered together, some travelling great distances to pay their respects. Their presence was a testament to the love and bond that connected us all. In this time of grief, we found cheer in the embrace of our extended family, finding strength in our shared memories and the knowledge that we were not alone in our sorrow.
As we move forward, we carry the memories of our beloved Dad. We appreciate the new bonds we formed during the services. The connections we made have become an integral part of our support system, guiding us through the healing process and reminding us of the enduring power of human connection.
Upon our return home, and recovery from jet lag, we turned on a movie. Maestro, recounts the life of the famous conductor, Leonard Bernstein.
I was barely watching, when Sean asked me to stop and listen to a piece which Bernstein (played by Bradley Cooper) conducted. It was the fifth movement of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No.2, also known as the “Resurrection Symphony”. It is an incredibly stirring work of art.
So much so that I decided to search for the translation of the German lyrics.
And there, in the translation, I saw my father-in-law again.
I believe and hope in the solace of resurrection.
Rise again, yes, rise again,
Will you, my dust, after a brief rest!
Immortal life! Immortal life
Will he who called you, give you.
You are sown to bloom again!
The lord of the harvest goes
And gathers sheaves,
Us, who have died.
O believe, my heart, O believe:
Nothing is lost to you!
Yours, yes yours, is what you desired
Yours, what you have loved
What you have fought for!
O believe,
You were not born for nothing!
Have not lived for nothing,
Nor suffered!
What was created
Must perish;
What perished, rise again!
Cease from trembling!
Prepare yourself to live!
O Pain, you piercer of all things,
From you, I have been wrested!
O Death, you conqueror of all things,
Now, are you conquered!
With wings which I have won for myself,
In love's fierce striving,
I shall soar upwards
To the light which no eye has penetrated!
I shall die in order to live.
Rise again, yes, rise again,
Will you, my heart, in an instant!
What you have conquered,
To God shall it carry you!
This Christmas I hope with all my heart that you, my dear family and friends, prepare yourself to live! It is a glorious life. Take solace in it!
In loving memory of Don Robinson.
