The front walkway is lined with candles. The window boxes are aglow with lights and freshly fallen snow. The air is crisp and clear. Stars twinkle in the bitter cold and yet in the restless wind there is the promise of more snow. Inside the tree is lit, the table is set and dinner, nearly ready. There is one excited little girl who cannot stop dancing to each and every Christmas song playing on the radio. And checking on the status of all the presents beneath the tree.

The evening is perfect. 

All is calm (well, except for the dancing) and all is bright.

And then, from the church down the street, the sound of bells. Christmas bells. So sharp and sweet in the frigid silence. We opened the windows and listened.

"Then pealed the bells more loud and deep, God is not dead nor doth he sleep. 

The Wrong shall fail, the Right prevail

with peace on earth good will to men..."

And suddenly, just like that, we were all reminded once again of the real reason for the lights and the presents and the excitement. The real reason for Christmas.

Merry Christmas!!