Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?!!
In the popular Christmas television special, "A Charlie Brown Christmas," Charlie Brown is placed in charge of directing that year's Christmas play. Unfortunately, the other children in the play tend to be uncooperative. After a lot of goofing off, arguing, teasing, and much talk about the commercialism of Christmas, Charlie Brown can't take any more and seeks an answer to his question: What is Christmas all about?
Linus answers by stepping out onto the stage and reciting the following passage from the bible for all to hear:
"And there were in the same country sheperds abiding in the field keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the Angel of the Lord came upon them. The glory of the Lord shone round about them. And they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not. For behold I bring you tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. This shall be a sign unto you. Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger.' And suddenly, there was with the Angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest. And on Earth, Peace. Goodwill toward Men.' "
After reciting the above, Linus walks up to Charlie Brown and says, "THAT'S what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."
So, the next time you feel that the stress of the holidays are getting you down, don't take all the rushing around so seriously. The tree, the gifts, the food and cards aren't what really matter. Just remember Linus' comforting words to Charlie Brown about what Christmas is really all about.
Charles Shulz, creator of Peanuts, is no longer with us, but the legacy he left behind of kite-eating trees, security blankets and a beagle who fancies himself a World War I Flying Ace will live forever. As Peppermint Patty might say, "So long Chuck... We'll miss ya." For more information, visit www.snoopy.com.
