MEMORY -
The sense of smell is an interesting thing. It can bring you back to a place in your past instantly. Every holiday season, Uncle Pete's house would smell of Pine. He would burn the incense as part of his daily ritual in December. As a child I thought that Santa's cologne must have smelled just like Uncle Pete's house.
It was important to Pete to have all of his senses satisfied during the holidays. He would relish in the luxury of comfy pajamas. Savor the taste of a hot chestnut. Fill his ears with Christmas carols while enjoying the strong yet pleasant smell of pine. Everybody has their way of capturing the spirit of Christmas. Pete had his and over time, it became ours.
APPLICATION -
As our family circled around the kitchen table to write out our Christmas lists, I noticed a familiar aroma entering the room. It was Pete's pine scented incense! Mom found it and decided it was the perfect night to light it up. Instantly, I was taken back to Pete's house. A haven of sensory experiences never to be forgotten. I walked over to the little log cabin which dispersed the fragrance. A handmade ornament that mom had made years ago was laying around the chimney. It was a picture of Uncle Pete holding me as a toddler during the holidays when we lived in Chicago. His face is of pure bliss. The special ornament will find it's new home tomorrow when we begin decorating.
REFLECTION -
Although Pete was no longer sitting at our table, his love of the holidays was filling the air that surrounded us. He found a way to be with us this evening, undoubtedly present in our circle. Present tonight, and many more nights to come.
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