Last night Chris “Pianomaestro” and I hosted the 4th Annual Eagle Station “Homecoming Christmas” show. It was a sold out night and we look forward to this every year. The first year, we didn’t even have a raised stage. It was just me, Chris, a baby grand, my guitar, and a room full of folks enjoying a meal together and sharing some music and stories.
By the second year, we added a raised stage, lights, decorations, sound, and before you knew it we had a Christmas Show that resembled what our dream and vision were leading us to create. We have very talented folks in the community perform and share their talent with us, and with their friends. Last night was no exception, and it seems to get better every year. I personally enjoy watching people engaging with each other, and as I walk around to each table from time to time during the show, a few of them decide to take me up on sharing a Christmas story, or just “a story” about life. It’s a homecoming and by the end of the night, we’re all family.
As our night closes in, I share one of my favorite Christmas stories. I said last night I stole the story, but that’s not entirely true:) However, I did steal part of it, and added a few thoughts. I love stockings at Christmas. I love them because it’s a surprise. Unlike some of our gifts for the kids or even each other, that we kinda fish around, or even plan to get, I like to be surprised. That’s why I like those little gifts stuffed in the stocking.
A few years ago, I was at a corporate event and the speaker was talking about how important the Christmas stocking stuffers really were, and how those things we put in the stockings for that individual were personal, and were intentionally thought out for just you! I started thinking about that thought and added a little more to it.
What if everyone you met during the day, the week, the month, the year, had a stocking attached to them? I wonder what we would leave in their stocking? Would it be a smile, a kind word of encouragement, a hug when they needed it, or maybe a few dollars you had to spare to help someone who was in a tight spot? We could be the surprise that they were hoping for but didn’t think would ever happen.
I’m afraid sometimes, if everyone had a stocking attached to them, it might be empty, or worse than that, it may have some rocks inside. Hey, we’re not perfect people, and we all have bad days, but maybe we could just stop for a moment this time of year and try and carry it over as we move into another year. We can do better….can’t we? I think I’m gonna keep trying a little harder…. Wishing all of you…Peace, Joy, and Love!
What’s in your stocking?
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays