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The Old Year

The Old Year
By John Clare

The Old Year’s gone away
To nothingness and night:
We cannot find him all the day
Nor hear him in the night:
He left no footstep, mark or place
In either shade or sun:
The last year he’d a neighbour’s face,
In this he’s known by none.

All nothing everywhere:
Mists we on mornings see
Have more of substance when they’re here
And more of form than he.
He was a friend by every fire,
In every cot and hall—
A guest to every heart’s desire,
And now he’s nought at all.

Old papers thrown away,
Old garments cast aside,
The talk of yesterday,
Are things identified;
But time once torn away
No voices can recall:
The eve of New Year’s Day
Left the Old Year lost to all.


About the Poem

John Clare’s poem “The Old Year” reflects on the passage of time, focusing on the transition from one year to the next. The poem is deeply rooted in Clare’s characteristic sensitivity to nature, change, and human experience. The poem treats the “old year” as a living entity, personifying it as something that has completed its journey and now fades into the past. Clare mourns the passing of the old year, imbuing it with a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The tone suggests a recognition of time’s relentless progression, an idea that resonates universally.

Clare often uses imagery from the natural world to express emotions, and this poem is no exception. The changing of the year is depicted through seasonal transitions, emphasizing the cycles of nature as a parallel to human life and time. For example, the closing of the year might evoke images of winter or decay, symbolizing an end but also hinting at renewal.

The poem captures the duality of endings and beginnings. While the old year is mourned, there is an implicit acknowledgment that a new year is dawning, bringing fresh opportunities and challenges. Clare’s reflection on the passing year invites readers to consider their own experiences, losses, and hopes for the future. The poem is wistful and contemplative, blending sadness for what is gone with a quiet acceptance of change. This emotional depth makes the poem relatable, as it mirrors the universal human tendency to reflect on time, achievements, and missed opportunities.

Clare’s “The Old Year” serves as a meditation on impermanence, inviting readers to pause and consider the flow of life and the inevitable passage of time. It is both personal and universal, making it a poignant reflection on the human condition.


About the Poet

John Clare (1793–1864) was an English poet known for his vivid depictions of rural life and nature, as well as his poignant explorations of human emotion and identity. Sometimes called the “peasant poet,” Clare’s work is remarkable for its deep empathy for the natural world and its ability to capture the details of everyday life with precision and beauty. Despite his humble background and later struggles with mental health, Clare’s poetry continues to be celebrated for its authenticity, lyricism, and insight.

Clare was born in Helpston, Northamptonshire, to a poor agricultural family. He had minimal formal education and worked as a farm laborer from a young age, which deeply influenced his poetry. His love of nature began in childhood, where he spent time exploring the countryside around his home. Clare’s first collection of poetry, Poems Descriptive of Rural Life and Scenery (1820), brought him initial fame and recognition. His ability to capture the details of rural life resonated with readers and critics, earning him the nickname “Northamptonshire Peasant Poet.” Subsequent collections, such as The Village Minstrel (1821), continued to showcase his deep connection to nature and his gift for descriptive writing.

Clare wrote extensively about the English countryside, celebrating its beauty while lamenting its destruction due to industrialization and enclosure laws. He depicted the daily lives of villagers and farmers with both realism and affection. Later in life, Clare’s poetry often explored themes of alienation, identity, and loss, reflecting his personal struggles.

Clare experienced mental health challenges later in life, exacerbated by financial difficulties and a sense of disconnection from the changing world around him. He spent his final years in an asylum, where he continued to write poetry, including some of his most haunting and introspective work. Poems like “I Am” reflect his feelings of isolation and yearning for peace.

Clare was largely forgotten after his death in 1864 but was rediscovered in the 20th century as a major Romantic poet. Today, he is celebrated for his unique voice, keen observational skills, and the authenticity of his work. His poems remain a vital part of English literature, offering a timeless appreciation for the natural world and the complexities of the human spirit. John Clare’s life and work stand as a testament to the enduring power of poetry to capture the beauty of the world and the struggles of the human heart.

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Backache

I don’t remember what it was I did yesterday, but I think it was picking up something heavy. Anyway, I remember when I did it, I thought, Oh! That doesn’t feel right. And sure enough, I woke up this morning with a stabbing pain in my lower back. It’s not so bad that it’s inhibiting too much movement, but it does make bending over uncomfortable. Some time on a heating pad, pain medicine, and a muscle relaxer should take care of the issue. I just need to take it easy today. Thankfully, I don’t have to return to work until Thursday. The only thing I really need to do today is do some work on my class that starts next week.

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The End and the Beginning

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

— Isaiah 43:18-19

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

—2 Corinthians 5:17

 As the final days of the year slip away and we prepare to welcome a new year, we stand at a crossroads of endings and beginnings. The old year, with its triumphs and struggles, is behind us. The new year, full of hope and uncertainty, stretches before us like a blank canvas. This year, for many of us, the coming year and the four to follow are probably fraught with more uncertainty than hope with the inauguration of the new administration in three weeks. However, we will not dwell on that today. Instead, I want to look at the transformation from endings to beginnings. This transition offers us a sacred opportunity to reflect, release, and renew. It is a chance to let go of what no longer serves us and embrace the new things God is doing in our lives. Let us consider how God works through endings and beginnings, transforming both into opportunities for growth, grace, and hope.

The closing of a year naturally invites reflection. We look back at the milestones, the unexpected turns, and the lessons learned. Reflection is a holy act—it allows us to recognize God’s faithfulness in the joys and in the challenges. But God also calls us to release the past. In Isaiah 43:18, God says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” This doesn’t mean ignoring what has happened, but rather choosing not to let past mistakes, failures, or even successes define us. What do you need to leave behind as the old as 2024 comes to a close? Perhaps it’s a lingering hurt, an old habit, or a missed opportunity. Just as God’s mercies are new every morning, He offers us the freedom to begin again.

Forgiving others and ourselves is key to moving forward. Just as Christ forgave us, we are called to release the burden of grudges and regrets. In doing so, we open our hearts to the newness God has in store. Over and over again, God calls us to forgive others. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says in Matthew 6:14-15, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Forgiveness is not optional in the Christian life. It reflects the forgiveness we have received from God. Paul tells us in Colossians 3:13, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Just as God forgives us freely, we are called to extend that same grace to others. When Jesus was challenged by the chief priests in Mark 11:25, He says, “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins. Forgiveness clears the way for reconciliation with God and others.

The new year is a reminder that God is always at work, creating and renewing. In Isaiah 43:19, God declares, “See, I am doing a new thing!” God is a God of new beginnings, offering us fresh starts not just once a year but every single day. What “new thing” is God calling you to? Perhaps it’s a new season in your relationships, a deeper commitment to your faith, or a step into the unknown. God makes a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland—He specializes in creating possibilities where none seemed to exist. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul reminds us that “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This means our past doesn’t define us. Our mistakes don’t have the final say. God’s grace transforms us from the inside out, enabling us to live with purpose and joy.

The transition between the old and the new is not always smooth. There may be uncertainty, hesitation, or fear. But as people of faith, we trust that God is with us in the in-between spaces. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:11, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put aways childish things.” The new year is like a blank page, and we often worry about what will be written on it. But as believers, we can face the future with hope. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

As we step into this new beginning, here are some ways we can align our hearts with God’s plans. Dedicate the year to God. Ask for His guidance, wisdom, strength, and forgiveness. Instead of just making resolutions, focus on deepening your faith. Commit to prayer, Scripture, and acts of service. The new year may not bring immediate change, but trust that God’s work is unfolding in His perfect time. Allow God to shape you, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. Growth often comes from challenges. As we say goodbye to the old and welcome the new, let us remember that God is the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end. He has been with us through the past year and will walk with us into the next.

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Moment of Zen: Home​ward Bound

Really, this is the most important reason that I’m ready to be back home:

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Going Home Tomorrow

I’m thankful I got to spend time with family, if only because I can tell how bad my mother’s dementia is getting. I want to be able to see her while she’s still doing relatively good, even though I can see the decline. We watched as her father slipped into dementia and that was hard enough, but this is my mama. She may have her faults, but no matter what, she’s still the woman who gave birth to me.

My father has actually been on good behavior. I still have another day to go here, so hopefully I’m not jinxing it, but he hasn’t started an argument with me over some perceived slight, which is usually what he does. If I can make it one more day, then I’ll be on my way home. 

I’ll fly back to Vermont tomorrow afternoon. I’m ready to be back home with Isabella and sleeping in my own bed. I have a two hour layover in Atlanta and should arrive back in Vermont just before midnight, as long as there are no unforeseen delays. As it is, the trip back will put me getting home at about 1am Sunday morning. Tomorrow will be a long day, but I least I should be home at the end of it.

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‘Twas the Day after Christmas

Christmas has come and gone, leaving behind memories, lessons, and perhaps a mix of emotions. Whether this Christmas was full of joy, challenges, or something in between, now is a time to reflect and recharge.

To those who spent the holiday surrounded by love and acceptance: cherish those moments and hold onto the warmth they bring. To those who faced difficult dynamics or loneliness: know that you are not alone, and brighter days are ahead.

As we move forward, let’s carry with us the spirit of the season—kindness, generosity, and hope—but also remember that it’s okay to rest, to heal, and to embrace a fresh start.

Here’s to turning the page and stepping into the new year with renewed strength and self-love. Whatever this holiday brought your way, you made it through—and that’s worth celebrating.

Take a deep breath, take care of yourself, and know that you are worthy of love and happiness. Always.

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Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night 

Feliz Navidad a todos, y a todos una buena noche. 

Joyeux Noël à tous, et à tous une bonne nuit. 

Fröhliche Weihnachten an alle, und allen eine gute Nacht. 

Buon Natale a tutti, e a tutti una buona notte. 

Feliz Natal a todos, e a todos uma boa noite. 

С Рождеством всех, и всем спокойной ночи. 

圣诞快乐给大家，祝大家晚安！ 

みんなにメリークリスマス、そしてみんなにおやすみなさい。 

모두에게 메리 크리스마스, 모두에게 좋은 밤 되세요. 

عيد ميلاد مجيد للجميع، وليلة سعيدة للجميع. 

सभी को क्रिसमस की शुभकामनाएं और सभी को शुभ रात्रि। 

Krismasi Njema kwa wote, na usiku mwema kwa wote. 

Καλά Χριστούγεννα σε όλους και σε όλους καληνύχτα. 

Felix Nativitas omnibus, et omnibus bona nox.

My Christmas Wishes to You

As we gather this holiday season, I want to take a moment to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas filled with love, joy, and peace. Whether you are surrounded by family, chosen family, or enjoying some quiet moments of reflection, know that you are cherished and appreciated.

This Christmas, let us celebrate the beauty of diversity, the strength of authenticity, and the power of love in all its forms. To all my readers, may your holidays be filled with warmth, joy, and the comfort of knowing you are seen, valued, and loved.

This time of year reminds us of the importance of kindness, compassion, and the connections we share. For those who may find this season challenging, I hope you find comfort in the knowledge that you are not alone—this community stands with you, offering support and understanding. Let this Christmas be a time to honor your journey, cherish chosen family, and embrace the unique light you bring to the world. Here’s to hope, unity, and a season that sparkles with pride.

May your days be bright, your heart be light, and your holiday season filled with warmth and happiness. From my heart to yours, Merry Christmas!

—Joe, The Closet Professor

Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Joyeux Noël, Frohe Weihnachten, Buon Natale, Feliz Natal, С Рождеством, 圣诞快乐, メリークリスマス, 메리 크리스마스, عيد ميلاد مجيد,  मेरि क्रिसमस, Krismasi Njema,  শুভ বড়দিন, Mutlu Noeller, Καλά Χριστούγεννα, Vrolijk Kerstfeest,  Wesołych Świąt,  חג מולד שמח, Giáng Sinh Vui Vẻ, Maligayang Pasko, สุขสันต์วันคริสต์มาส, Καλά Χριστούγεννα, Felix Dies Nativitatis.

Since ancient language of Aramaic was most likely the language of Christ, I though I’d add this translation as well:

 ܐܫܬܐ ܠܟ ܫܢܬܐ ܛܒܬܐ ܘܐܝܕܐ ܕܡܘܠܕܐ ܕܡܫܝܚܐ!

(Eshta l-kh shnata ṭavta w-ida d-Mawlada d-Mshiḥa!)

It roughly translates to “I wish you a good year and a feast of the birth of the Messiah!”

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Santa baby, just slip a Sable under the tree for me

Been an awful good girl

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

Santa baby, a '54 convertible too, light blue

I'll wait up for you, dear

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

Think of all the fun I've missed

Think of all the fella's that I haven't kissed

Next year I could be just as good

If you check off my Christmas list

Santa baby, I want a yacht and really that's not a lot

Been an angel all year

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

Santa honey, one little thing I really need

The deed to a platinum mine

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

Santa cutie, and fill my stocking with the duplex and checks

Sign your 'x' on the line

Santa cutie, and hurry down the chimney tonight

Come and trim my Christmas tree

With some decorations bought at Tiffany's

I really do believe in you

Let's see if you believe in me

Santa baby, forgot to mention one little thing

A ring, I don't mean on the phone

Santa baby, so hurry down the chimney tonight

Hurry down the chimney tonight

Hurry, tonight

O Holy Night / Cantique de Noël

O Holy Night

English translation by John Sullivan Dwight, 1855

 

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining;

It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.

Long lay the world in sin and error pining,

Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices,

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!

Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices!

O night divine, O night when Christ was born!

O night divine! O night, O night divine!

 

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,

With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.

So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,

Here came the wise men from the orient land.

The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger,

In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, to our weakness no stranger.

Behold your King, before Him lowly bend!

Behold your King, your King, before Him lowly bend!

 

Truly He taught us to love one another;

His law is love and His gospel is peace.

Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother;

And in His name all oppression shall cease.

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we;

Let all within us praise His holy name.

Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we!

His power and glory evermore proclaim!

His power and glory evermore proclaim!

When I think of “O Holy Night,” I always think of it being sung by Mahalia Jackson, an American gospel singer and widely considered one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. I had a Christmas album when I was young that included Jackson’s version of the song, and it has always stuck with me as the best version I’ve ever heard.

Cantique de Noël

By Placide Cappeau, 1847

 

Minuit ! Chrétiens, c'est l'heure solennelle 

Où l'homme Dieu descendit jusqu'à nous, 

Pour effacer la tache originelle 

Et de son père arrêter le courroux: 

Le monde entier tressaille d'espérance 

A cette nuit qui lui donne un sauveur 

Peuple à genoux, attends ta délivrance 

Noël ! Noël ! Voici le Rédempteur ! 

Noël ! Noël ! Voici le Rédempteur !

 

De notre foi que la lumière ardente 

Nous guide tous au berceau de l'enfant 

Comme autrefois, une étoile brillante 

Y conduisit les chefs de l'Orient 

Le Roi des Rois naît dans une humble crèche, 

Puissants du jour fiers de votre grandeur,

A votre orgueil c'est de là qu'un Dieu prêche, 

Courbez vos fronts devant le Rédempteur ! 

Courbez vos fronts devant le Rédempteur !

 

Le Rédempteur a brisé toute entrave, 

La terre est libre et le ciel est ouvert 

Il voit un frère où n'était qu'un esclave 

L'amour unit ceux qu'enchaînait le fer, 

Qui lui dira notre reconnaissance? 

C'est pour nous tous qu'il naît, qu'il souffre et meurt: 

Peuple, debout ! chante ta délivrance, 

Noël ! Noël! chantons le Rédempteur ! 

Noël ! Noël! chantons le Rédempteur !

About "O Holy Night" / "Cantique de Noël"

 

“O Holy Night” began as a French poem titled “Minuit, chrétiens” (“Midnight, Christians”) in 1843. It was written by Placide Cappeau, a wine merchant and poet from the small French town of Roquemaure. Cappeau was asked to write a Christmas poem to celebrate the renovation of the local church organ. Although not deeply religious himself, he drew inspiration from the Gospel of Luke, which describes the birth of Jesus. Subsequently, Cappeau’s poem was set to music by Adolphe Adam, a well-known French composer, in 1847. Adam, famous for composing operas and ballets, created a melody that beautifully reflected the poem’s reverence and emotion. The song quickly gained popularity in France.

 

In 1855, an American Unitarian minister named John Sullivan Dwight translated the song into English. Dwight was an abolitionist who was deeply moved by the song’s themes of hope, peace, and liberation. He particularly connected with the line:

“Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother;

And in His name, all oppression shall cease.”

At the time, the United States was deeply divided over slavery, and this message resonated strongly with the abolitionist movement.

 

Over time, “O Holy Night” spread across the world, becoming one of the most cherished Christmas hymns in both its original French and English forms. It has been performed by countless artists in various languages, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.

 

The lyrics of “O Holy Night” focus on the sacred and transformative night of Jesus Christ’s birth. The song emphasizes the arrival of the Savior, bringing hope and salvation to a fallen world. The lyrics describe the “thrill of hope” that comes with Christ’s birth. The call to “fall on your knees” reflects humility, reverence, and worship. It encourages listeners to acknowledge and celebrate the significance of Christ’s incarnation. The line about breaking chains and ending oppression highlights the transformative power of Christ’s message. This aligns with Christian teachings of justice, love, and freedom for all people.

 

“O Holy Night” was the first song ever broadcast on the radio. On December 24, 1906, Canadian inventor Reginald Fessenden played a violin rendition and sang the song during a historic radio transmission.     It has been recorded by numerous artists across genres, including opera singers, pop stars, and choirs. Iconic versions include renditions by artists like Mariah Carey, Josh Groban, and Nat King Cole. As I said above, Mahalia Jackson’s version is my favorite, and Andrea Bocelli does a superb job in the original French. I apologize if there is a better French version, but I am not very familiar with many French singers. Regardless of who sings it or in what language, the song’s universal message of peace, hope, and redemption continues to resonate with people around the world during the Christmas season. “O Holy Night” is a song with a deep spiritual message, a rich historical background, and an enduring impact on Christmas traditions. It’s beautiful lyrics and melody continue to inspire awe and reverence for the meaning of Christmas.

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Glitzen, The Most Fabulous Reindeer of All

Early one May at the North Pole, one of Santa’s reindeer gave birth to a little reindeer. When the little reindeer stood for the first time, he fell forward, directly into a pile of glitter meant for Santa’s toy shop. Everybody laughed at the little fella when he stood back up on shaky legs and his nose was covered in glitter. His mother decided then that she would name the boy Glitzen a portmanteau of her father Blitzen’s name and the glitter he fell into. As Glitzen began to grow, everyone noticed that his nose continued to sparkle. It seemed he never could get rid of all that glitter that was his first encounter in this world.

All the boy reindeers used to laugh and call him names. Glitzen knew he was different. Instead of playing reindeer games with the other bucks, he preferred to prance and dance around with the does. He always had a great time with the young does, and he always felt more conformable with them. They never laughed and called him names, and he always seemed to have the best ideas on how to make the does more fabulous. Glitzen had a natural instinct for fashion and decorating. He knew just how to make anyone, and everything seem more fabulous. The young bucks refused to have anything to do with him. His parents loved him, but his father was always a little embarrassed by his son. His mother knew her son was different, but she loved how confident he was in himself, even when the other reindeer bullied him.

One year, the world seemed especially gloomy. A pandemic had swept over the Earth. Santa’s elves just didn’t have the spark they usually had. The toys didn’t sparkle, and the wrapped packages were drab. Santa was so disappointed, but he understood that when the world was gloomy, the North Pole was always gloomy as well. Everything in Santa’s Village at the North Pole fed on the energy of the world. When the world was unhappy, Santa’s Village was unhappy too. Santa was blue too, but he tried to keep his spirits up for all those at the North Pole. Santa decided to walk around his Village to try to cheer everyone up and maybe get some spark back around the place.

As Santa walked around, he noticed that the reindeer were not playing any games, just moping around. The elves had no pep in their work making toys, and it showed with the toys they were making. As Santa continued to walk around, he heard laughter and singing from somewhere. Santa immediately perked up because someone was obviously having fun. Santa followed the sound to see where the joy was coming from. He entered the barn to see a fabulous sight, a group of young reindeer were dancing and singing. It looked like they were being led by a young reindeer with glitter on his nose and a string of lights in his antlers. The young buck’s bells were making the most wonderous noise, and all seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Santa said, “Everyone outside and in the toy shop was so gloomy, what happened in here to make everyone so festive?” All of the reindeer just laughed and pointed to Glitzen. Santa said, “Glitzen, my boy, how are you able to be so cheerful when everyone else is so gloomy?”

 

Glitzen looked at Santa and said, “Santa, we can’t all be gloom and doom. Someone has to get the Spirit of Christmas in the air. A little glitter, some lights, and bells can make the world a bit merrier again. I just wanted to show everyone that we need a little Christmas right now.” Then, Glitzen began to sing:

Haul out the holly
Put up the tree before my spirit falls again
Fill up the stocking
I may be rushing things, but deck the halls again now.

For we need a little Christmas, right this very minute
Candles in the window, carols at the spinet
Yes, we need a little Christmas, right this very minute
Hasn't snowed a single flurry, but Santa dear we're in a hurry.

Santa joined in singing:

I need to climb down the chimney
Turn on the brightest string of lights I've ever seen
Slice up the fruit cake
It's time we've hung some tinsel on the evergreen bough.

Before anyone realized what was going on, the cheer seen in the barn had spread throughout the North Pole. Everyone began to sing:

For I've grown a little leaner, grown a little colder
Grown a little sadder, grown a little older
And I need a little angel sitting on my shoulder
Need a little Christmas now

For we need a little music, need a little laughter
Need a little singing ringing through the rafter
And we need a little snappy, happy ever after
We need a little Christmas now.

When the song died down, Santa said, “Yes, we do need a little Christmas now. Glitzen thank you for bringing Christmas cheer back to the North Pole. We need to spread this through the whole world. Glitzen, can you do two things for me?”

 

Glitzen said, “I’ll do anything I can Santa. What do you need me to do?”

“Glitzen, I need you to help get the elves and the other reindeer in the Christmas spirit again,” said Santa. “Then, on Christmas Eve when I go out to deliver presents to all the boys and girls, I need you to spread this Christmas spirit around the world. People may be on lockdown or quarantined. They may be away from their family for the first time, but they need to know that the joy of the Christmas season can still be felt. We can’t let this pandemic get us down. Will you do that for me, Glitzen?”

 

Glitzen nodded his head, and he and the girls began to go around covering everything with glitter and tinsel. They sang Christmas songs to get everyone back in the mood for a joyous Christmas. All of the young reindeer, including the young bucks who’d made fun of Glitzen, got into the spirit. The elves had their spark back and the toys shone with glee. The packages they wrapped under Glitzen’s direction were some of the most fabulous to ever come from the North Pole.

On Christmas Eve, Glitzen led Santa’s sleigh spreading glitter and joy throughout the world. While the world still woke up to a pandemic on Christmas Day and many were still separated from each other, there was a new cheer in the world, a fabulousness that it thought it had lost. The Christmas lights on the trees seemed to sparkle just a little more brightly that morning. The tinsel seemed to almost glow on the trees. People went to their windows and threw open the sash. They all sang in unison, no matter their language. They sang “Santa Baby,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “All I Want for Christmas is You.” It was a gay old time and the most fabulous Christmas anyone could imagine.

Santa and all the reindeer congratulated Glitzen on not only being the most fabulous reindeer of all, but for making it the most fabulous Christmas of all.

 

Merry Christmas, Everyone! 

 

May you all have a fabulous Christmas, too, and if you wake up with a bit of glitter everywhere, then maybe Glitzen has been with Santa to your house this year.

P.S. I know this is a silly story, and I posted it once before a few years ago. However, I wanted to add a few illustrations to it this year. The story came about because I was listening to “Rudolph, the Red Nose Reindeer” on the radio, and I thought of the words, “All of the other reindeer / Used to laugh and call him names / They never let poor Rudolph / Join in any reindeer games.” How many of us growing up as little gay boys had others laugh and call us names? How many of us were never allowed to join others in their games? Rudolph could have been many of us growing up, but instead of having a red shiny nose, ours was a metaphorical glittery nose. We are all fabulous in our own way, and it’s time we recognize just how fabulous Christmas is because of all the gay people out there.


I did something I have never done with a post before and used all AI created images. It’s amazing what ChatGPT can come up with when you ask the right questions.

Pic of the Day

The Journey to Joy

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.

— Matthew 2:9-11

Christmas is a season full of movement. The nativity story itself is a tapestry of journeys. Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem. The shepherds hurried from their fields to the manger. The magi traversed faraway lands, following a star. Even the angels traveled from the realms of heaven to proclaim, “Glory to God in the highest!” 

I am currently somewhere in the air between Burlington and Philadelphia, or at least I hope I am. I scheduled this post a few days ago. I’m on my way to see family for Christmas. I would say, I am going home, but Vermont is my home now and has been for a while. Alabama is where my family is and where I grew up. One of the popular classic Christmas songs is “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” It’s a song that stirs memories of connection, love, and the longing for home—a place where we are seen, cherished, and known. But what does it mean to be home for Christmas, especially for those of us in the LGBTQ+ community? For some, home is a place of comfort and joy. For others, like me, it can be a complicated memory or even a wound. And for many, home is something we have had to build ourselves—choosing love, creating family, and shaping spaces where we are celebrated for who we are.

Many of you may be traveling this week, whether home, to visit family, or taking a Christmas vacation. Travel is central to this season. And, in some ways, we are all traveling. Whether literally—on crowded roads, in bustling airports—or metaphorically—on personal journeys of faith, healing, or rediscovery—this time of year reminds us that life is a pilgrimage. But traveling isn’t easy, is it? Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem was grueling. The shepherds left their flocks, stepping into uncertainty. The magi followed a distant light, navigating unfamiliar terrain. Each journey was fraught with challenges, but each was also guided by a deeper purpose. Their journeys were not just about the destination but about transformation. And the same is true for us.

Traveling often takes us out of our comfort zones. I’m afraid of flying, though I have gotten better as I have had to fly more often in the past ten years. Sometimes, we travel to new and unfamiliar places, and it can really take us out of our comfort zone if we are alone in our travels. But it can also be a liberating experience. We can be more ourselves in a strange place because no one we know are there. Whether the travels we take are literally journey, or the spiritual path we’re on, there’s uncertainty in leaving what we know. Some of us may feel like Mary and Joseph, carrying heavy burdens on a road we didn’t choose. Others may feel like the magi, searching for something we can’t yet name.

Sometimes the path feels lonely, or the way forward unclear. Yet the story of Christmas reminds us that God walks with us. Whether we are weary travelers like Mary and Joseph or seekers like the magi, God does not abandon us on the road. However, remember what Psalm 121:7-8 says, “The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” The magi had the star to guide them—a beacon of hope, a sign that they were on the right path. We, too, have light for our journeys. Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

The light for our journey might come in the form of Scripture, prayer, or the love of our community. God’s light might come through moments of unexpected grace—a kind word, a door opened, a heart softened. Even when the road feels dark, God places stars in our lives to remind us that we are not lost. John 8:12 tells us, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” The magi didn’t know exactly where their journey would take them, but they trusted the star. In Matthew 2:2, the magi said to Herod, “We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When they finally arrived to find Jesus, their trust was rewarded with joy.  

When we think about the Christmas story, it’s easy to focus on the stable as the destination. But the true destination was not the place—it was the presence of Christ. In 1 John 1:5, we are told, “This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.” This is what all our traveling leads to: encountering the divine. Matthew 28:20 says, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Whether your journey is one of faith, reconciliation, healing, or self-discovery, the promise of Christmas is that God is waiting for you, not at some distant destination, but in the very heart of your journey.

When the magi arrived, they were overjoyed—not because the road had been easy, but because they found what they were searching for. In Christ, they found the fulfillment of their hopes and the embodiment of God’s love. This Christmas, I encourage you to reflect on the journey you’re on. Where are you headed? What are you seeking? And where might God be calling you to take the next step? Jesus tells the disciples in Matthew 28:19 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” We don’t have to go our preaching on the street corners to spread the word of Christ, we just need to live in the way Christ commands us to and follow his example of love and kindness. All of our journeys are different. Perhaps your journey is toward forgiveness. Maybe it’s toward reconnection with family or friends. It could be about rediscovering your faith or offering love to someone in need. Wherever your journey takes you, know this: God is with you every step of the way. Christ came to dwell among us so that no road would ever be traveled alone. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

And as we travel, we are also called to be like the magi—to bring our gifts to Christ and to the world. What gifts can you bring this season? A listening ear? A kind word? A helping hand? Every gift, no matter how small, becomes sacred when offered in love. Christmas reminds us that the journey matters as much as the destination. Like the magi, we are all travelers, seeking the light. We will find joy—not in perfection or ease, but in the presence of Christ, who meets us right where we are. So, take heart on your journey. Follow the light, trust the road, and know that joy awaits.

Pic of the Day

Moment of Zen: Christmas Lights