Yule Ramblings #23: The Evergreen One

We tend to think that the concept of the Christmas Tree has been around forever. Rocking around the Christmas Tree. (One) little Christmas Tree. Oh, Christmas Tree. How about Yellin' at the Christmas Tree?

Technically, the modern day "Christmas" tree has been reappearing every holiday season since the 1500's. So I guess it's kinda like "forever."

When I think about the evergreen... Well, it reminds me of this ornament. And specifically, the guy in the middle.

In this photo frame, you'll find my little one just a few weeks after his birth (oddly resembling Quagmire.)

Once children infiltrate your life - all waking moments (and sometimes even when sleeping) - tend to be prioritized around their needs.

And then, in our limited capacity, we refer often to recent times when our children were part of our lives, making our children a very important portion of our most easily recalled memories.

In fact, we parents sometimes struggle to remember the days when our offspring weren't a major part of our lives.

But I was a whole 'nother person back then. A different girl. And I struggle to summon her likeness in my mind anymore. And I guess that makes sense, because upon the birth of a child, one goes through a major identity realignment.

We meet a new person, and thereby become a new person.

The evergreen? Perennially green. To remind us of the life force that is forever fresh.

Until you separate it from its native growing patterns, slice it through its core and drag it into unnatural territory. Then, it will eventually wither and lose its luster.

I yearn for a world where we all follow our individual and natural course - respectful of others and charitable towards the collective - and wonder how healthy and lush we would all grow.

Just one quick note: I can appreciate the fine value of the ornaments upon my tree with a relatively quick glance. I don't want you to assume I spend all day swaying in front of my artificial evergreen, fixated on some popsicle-stick wreath. Gimme a break here ;)