We walked out
into the bush, he and I. Even at that early hour the sun was hot on our backs. We
had one thing on our minds, to find a branch of the right size. We found one
eventually and took it to his home. His wife and family decorated it with the
things they had made and it looked beautiful in the corner of the room.
Then the husband
did his part; for each member of the family and for me a small gift was hung
from it. Each had a simple message:
This is a present from the tree.
Thank you for bringing me into your home.
Such simplicity,
such beauty, such joy.
And what a
contrast to the “civilised” countries, where we cut down a living tree, take it
home for a few days and watch it die surrounded by often expensive gifts many
of which go almost ignored and without value. So unnecessary.
At any time of
the year, I wish you peace; may every Christmas (and every day) be as
heart-warming as that I describe here.
Until next time (more in 2013),
Peripatetic
Scribe
Nice end of year blog, P.S. and one that should hit the hearts of all readers. Looking forward to more "brain-testers" next year. Have an excellent seasonal holiday and a prosperous 2013.
ReplyDeleteMark NZ
Thanks Mrk - I imagine you will be on the beach over Christmas - or perhaps sailing? (My local club has organised a sailing event on Christmas morning - but it's just an excuse to have a few beers in the club bar after!!!
ReplyDeleteI couldn't agree with you more! I simply cannot understand how people can so easily decide to cut a tree and then watch it die while they are celebrating. They have probably never planted a tree themselves and have never seen it grow.Hence, they are unaware of how long it takes and how much magic it involves. That's the only excuse I can think of, yet still a poor one. As to expensive gifts which usually go ignored - it just shows how futile and sad our lives have become....
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to new blog posts and wishing you a splendid Christmas and a wonderful 2013.
Lucana
A very pertinent post containing sentiments with which I entirely concur. In a year when I have lost some good friends, I appreciate more than ever the enduring value of friendship and good conversation which far exceeds and transcends that of material trinkets.
ReplyDeleteSeasonal greetings and best wishes to everyone for a healthy and peaceful 2013.
Paul (Strathyre, Scotland)