Reflections of Christmases Past, Present

Christmas is a magic time for kids no matter what age. The season brings fond memories of times past when homes were filled with the spirit of family warmth, gift giving and merriment.

For me, Christmas also brings memories. But the one I cherish above all others is the memory of the Christmas that Kenny got his first Christmas tree.

Kenny, you see, was the poor kid who lived in the basement apartment down the street from me in Chicago.

His family like many other families on my block could barely afford to pay rent, and put food on the table let alone think of trees and gifts. But this Christmas a miracle happened.

Kenny and I were passing the neighborhood Christmas tree lot the day before Christmas when we spotted two boys trying to steal a tree. We shouted for them to drop it, and they ran away. The owner in appreciation gave us the tree.

I can still see the look on Kenny’s mother’s face when we brought the tree home. Her look told me that this would be a special Christmas for her family.

This was a simple kindness. The sort of kindness that meant something in the era before video games, VCRs, Gucci purses, fancy jewelry or Fila jogging suits.

Kenny’s family would remain poor. But their spirit was rich, and their joy was full that Christmas. I hope they remember that Christmas because I always do.

EARL OFARI

Los Angeles