It’s Christmas Eve, 2024. I am the first to admit, I avoid most things Christmas. December is one of two months that hit me hard. I believe those who celebrate Christmas, have that one Christmas song that they must hear on Christmas Eve.
For me, it’s “O Holy Night”. Growing up in a small town in Upstate New York, I have fond memories of attending candlelight service with my mother and younger sisters. Back then, service was held at 11:00 in the evening. I admit, as a child and then a teen, the song wasn’t my favorite. My mother absolutely loved hearing Mr. June, who sang in the choir, sing it every year. He had a very deep voice and sang it wonderfuly.
As I got older, the song held a deeper place in my heart and nudged “Silent Night” into second place for my favorite Christmas song. When my mother suddenly passed (over a decade ago), this song helped me get through Christmas. Christmas was her favorite holiday. These days, I listen to Josh Groban’s rendition of “O Holy Night”. His voice isn’t quite as deep as Mr. June’s, but he does a great job.
Music is where my memories are. For the good, bad, sad, or excited times in my life, I have songs attached them all. Music can bring me back to a simpler time, but it’s there as new memories are made too.
Merry Christmas to you all.
The Pink Herald 