Advent is a season of preparation and remembrance as we anticipate the birth of our Savior. It brings back memories of loved ones who once made this season so wonderful but who are no longer with us.
Traditions are time capsules into which we put memories of people and events. Some of my fondest memories come rushing back each year during Advent and most of these involve my mother. Over the years I have come to understand she had a passion for Christ and for Christmas that spread across two generations who never knew her.
One of Mom’s hobbies was making ceramic figures and decorations. My collection includes a host of figurines, dogs, and dishes, but the most cherished are the ones she made for Christmas. Every year, we unpack a nativity with “Edna ‘54” painted on the bottom of each piece. This creche receives a prominent place on the mantle above the fireplace for us and any visitors to enjoy.
Over the years, the placing of Joseph, Mary, and Baby Jesus, wise men, shepherds and sheep (including one little black sheep) has provided opportunities for discussion and for sharing feelings, stories, and memories. Mom's love for this season has been passed to each member of my family through these objects and traditions.
When I was 18, my mother died suddenly. At that time one of my chief regrets was that she would never see me enter college. Nearly sixty years have passed, and there have been so many things she wasn’t there to see. I graduated from college and grad school, got married, had children and grandchildren, and had a successful career. Over all of that time, she has been with us through the traditions she started. They have become an important part of our family holiday celebration. During Advent every year her passion for this season keeps reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas.
— Bob Peck
