December 20, 2013

Christmas Memories

A wonderful Christmas memory that brings a family together each holiday season

By Rene Becher (Special to The Criterion)

It was the year of 1985. My generous Grandma Brown always gave us a check for our Christmas present. At this time, our daughter Cindy was 3 years old. She was always intuitive and would give her strong opinion in a reserved way. So my husband Jim exclaimed, “What will we do with Grandma’s money this year?”

Cindy was an earshot away and replied, “We need one of those Baby Jesus cribs in our yard.”

Jim glanced at me, shrugged his shoulders and said, “It’s a done deal.”

Later that day, I pulled out the Sears catalog and was able to order “the set.” This set has brought us so many positive memories over the years. Jim constructed a manger and stable. However, other things have transpired. One year, the Baby Jesus was stolen. And, of course, Cindy took charge and ordered a new one.

One of the best things is that Baby Jesus appears on Christmas Eve. Each member of the family has taken care of the babe to make sure he is placed in the shining lights. For our family, the Advent season moves forward on this glorious night.
 

(Rene Becher is a member of St. Simon the Apostle Parish in Indianapolis.) †

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