The kids have long since fallen asleep, and the gifts are finally wrapped and we can go to bed. But before we do I'd like to share one more Christmas song, based on accounts of Christmas on the battle fields of World War I. I usually don't care for modern songs (or Christmas poems!) that support/thank/pay tribute to servicemen or put them on pedestals. Many of them just seem too contrived - drop some buzzwords like defending freedom, flags, etc., with a catchy tune and voila...people feel good an you make money. They seem more born of the desire to idealize and generalize than empathize with someone "standing the watch".
This song is more heartfelt, to me.
Christmas in the TrenchesIt was interesting reading of these occurrences when I was young, though the meaning really didn't sink in until later in life. It's a hopeful song. If Christmas, whatever it is/means, is enough to get mortal enemies to put aside their quarrel for even a day, then there is hope.
To those of you standing the watch, walking a post, far away from your friends and family, Merry Christmas. Stay safe, and come home soon.
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UPDATE: WOW!!! Check the history note for today! I had NO IDEA that's what it was going to be when I started writing!
1 comment:
Yeah, a much more from the heart tune than the usual flag waving standards. Great Post. It made me pause for a moment and consider those who cannot be home this Christmas. Merry Christmas to you. Have a great Holiday.
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