The Day After Christmas

The day after Christmas has always held some special significance for me. Some years I have left for a winter vacation on this day. Others I have been visiting my family from one of the out of state locations where I lived. Wherever I have been on this day, however, it seems that the English and Canadians have it right by making this day a holiday, too...Boxing Day. In America Christmas just seems to end too abruptly, especially these days when the decorations go up right after Halloween. In Europe, and especially in the countries where they celebrate the Epiphany, Christmas isn't just a one shot event that stops at the strike of twelve, but rather is a string of days where you still hear carols, see decorations and enjoy the spirit of the season for twelve more. Years ago I chose to celebrate the season until January 6th. I dont throw away Christmas on December 26th, rather I enjoy the sights, scents and songs of the season until the day that the Magi came to worship the Christ child. Seems to me that is a better way to honor Him, and to assure that the true spirit of Christmas is savored for a few more days.