Mrs. Murfreesboro: Christmas finally here – for some joy, for others sadness on The Murfreesboro Post

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Mrs. Murfreesboro: Christmas finally here – for some joy, for others sadness

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By: JEANNE BRAGG, Post Columnist

Posted: Sunday, December 21, 2008 7:48 am

Oh, my gosh, it's here.

When I heard an announcer on television say this morning, “Eight days left until Christmas!” part of me grimaced and part of me rejoiced. Only eight more days of expectations, anxiety and/or anticipation. Yes, by gosh, by golly, we're almost there!

I personally have had a wonderful year, but not everyone I know shares happy sentiments this holiday season.

Many of our longtime Murfreesboro residents will celebrate their first Christmas season without loved ones this year. Among them are the Holden Family who lost matriarch Kaki this fall; the Claybrookes, whose husband and father David passed this very week; the John Pittard family who lost their grandmother and noted Rutherford County historian Mabel earlier this year; the Levi family who suffered the recent loss of their mother/wife/high school educator Nancy; the Bond family, who lost their beloved mother Robbie; and the family of Julie Jenkins, mother of four who lost a painful and vicious battle with cancer last week; and the Haynes family of Lascassas who lost their father and husband, Ben. Ben was a farmer and beloved member of the Lascassas community. And these are only the recent losses that come to mind.

Facing the first Christmas season with the loss of a loved one is very difficult, as those of us who have endured that know – and my heart, and the hearts of many readers – go out in sympathy to you.

In my mind I've written many articles about greeting cards that card companies don't make. And there are many.

There are cards that should say, “Please don’t think about telling us ‘Happy Holidays’ because we really don't feel like celebrating this year.” OR, “We’re facing serious illness this year and don’t feel like celebrating,” OR, “After many years we regret to announce that my spouse and I are getting a divorce...” or “Our house has been foreclosed on this year so we really can’t afford to/and certainly don’t feel like celebrating.”

Many have news daily that they do not want to share, news that doesn’t necessarily warrant an announcement. But recipients of bad news should be entitled to prayers and support as much as those who celebrate happy times.

My husband Tommy and I walked in the Christmas parade Sunday. He walked as the Mayor and I went along for the ride. Fortunately, with the exception of high winds, the weather was very cooperative (around 58 degrees), and the brisk walk kept us from thinking about being cold.

What cheerful greetings we got as we walked along the way!

There were high school bands that walked ahead of us, along with Cub Scouts, fire trucks and beauty queens. They set a happy tone for a warm, welcoming crowd. I don’t ever remember having felt such sincere warm wishes as I did last Sunday when every single person we greeted would say, “Merry Christmas!” Looking them in the eyes – young or old, rich or poor – and seeing their contagious happiness and sincerity, we truly felt the sincere spirit of the holiday season.

To all of you who have suffered losses this year, our sincere, utmost condolences. Know that you do not suffer alone.

And to those who share a happy spirit, please continue to share that joy with others. I know from the parade route and from difficult years in the past how contagious it can be.

I think that's what the true Spirit of Christmas is all about.

'Til next week.

Tagged under VOICES

Member Opinions:

By: justdance on 12/22/08

Good Lord, I almost didn't make it through the first half of your column without wanting to shoot myself!

I'm glad you lightened up a bit by the end.