Each year, come December, the John Lennon version of, So This Is Christmas, repeats in my head.
So this is Christmas / Another year over, a new one just begun.
The story goes, Lennon wanted to release this song in 1971 as a way to continue to protest the Vietnam war. He added, “War is over,” among the original lyrics.
Can you imagine what John Lennon, if he was with us, might think of this song today? It’s easy if you try… (see what I did there?). Lennon most likely would have seen the need for peace in the world-wide battle for relief from the COVID-19 battle. His childhood home of Great Britain is really suffering right now, with new restrictions being imposed in efforts to stem another surge of coronavirus.
As I play back those Christmas song lyrics in my head: I hope you have fun stands out. Not much fun in our household this year. We will certainly celebrate Christmas with gratitude for our young grandchildren and the joy they will experience. Still, in millions of households around the globe there is much loss… more than 1.7 million, as of this writing, have died from the pandemic. Empty chairs at the table and pain in the hearts of families.
But next week, in keeping with the song lyrics: a new year (will have) just begun. And I hope you are as grateful as I am for the new year. Let’s hope it’s a good one, without any fears! The vaccines being distributed around the world and hopefully begin to quell many fears and bring peace.
While the vaccination effort should certainly be celebrated, I believe we need to remember the loss of parents, grandparents, children, aunts and uncles, along with friends and companions who have died. As we mourn each of these people, may we pray for the ultimate peace for those who will continue to love them. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
At Peace 