Music is a powerful tool that has the ability to pull us back in time. It can evoke joy, happiness, and nostalgia, as well as anger, sadness, and angst if the memories are difficult. Music calms fussy babies and provides a beautiful backdrop to a romantic date. It keeps you company (and awake) on a cross-country road trip. It can help you power through a workout and make or break the vibe at a party.
Christmas music is in a classification all its own. Stores use it to entice shoppers to begin their holiday shopping early-sometimes even in October! Some radio stations play nothing but Christmas music from the day after Thanksgiving to New Year's Day. By then, many of us are on auditory overload and are ready for it to stop.
But Christmas songs still have the power to pull out feelings and emotions and provide a continuity through the many Christmas seasons throughout life. Kindergarten concerts. Christmas tree lightings. Sleigh rides. Winter ski trips. Engagements under mistletoe. Classic Christmas movies. Grandkids opening their first gift. Christmas music fills many memories of the holiday season and can evoke, yearly, the memories of times long gone.
Silent Night takes me back to caroling during snowy nights in Farmington, WA. The full moon caused the snowflakes to sparkle as they danced toward the rolling country hills. My grade school friends and I added our voices to make the night a little less silent. I still smile at the memory.
Silver and Gold evokes the many memories of my children bringing cheer to Veteran and nursing homes during the holiday season. They were a part of their school's bell choir and chorus. The old-fashioned song brought joy to the members of the homes and still brings joy to my heart. A chorus of strong, clear bells ringing a song filled with nostalgia that echoes in my mind to this day. The music of this season is truly powerful.
May you, too, experience good music and beautiful time spent with family and friends during this season. May it always point you towards the reason for the season. Merry Christmas.
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