Much has been written about grief during holidays, birthdays, and occasions special to us. These memories can bring sadness, perhaps tears, but also some laughs and good thoughts.
My thoughts this morning are brought on by sitting in my living room, listening to Christmas music. For those who were fortunate enough to know my husband, Tom, perhaps they will remember his love of music. Tom had little musical ability and couldn’t reproduce a note in the correct key. That didn’t stop him from singing.
His favorite music was at Christmas time. And, his favorite song out of all Christmas music was “Silver Bells.” He recorded every version of that song that he could find. His recording tape included about sixty different singers and instrumental players.
As I’m sitting now and listening to “Silver Bells,” I can hear him singing with that tape as he loaded the dishwasher and cleaned up the kitchen. It was played while we decorated the tree. It can take time to listen to sixty versions. His pitch may have been far from the notes playing, but he sang the words with joy.
While there has been an emptiness at Christmas for our family for many years, we can remember the off-key notes with smiles. I don’t think my sons or I ever hear the strains of “Silver Bells” without thinking of Tom. Those memories are good .
