Christmas Memories

Dear Dr. LeCrone:

At age 90, I have out lived most of my friends and some of my family. During the holidays, gifts, parties and decorations are not very important to me anymore. My memories of past holidays, however give special meaning to me at this time of the year.

Reminiscence can be a very powerful tool to help older people deal with aging in a healthy manner. Please let me share some of my past Christmas memories with you and your readers.

My earliest memory of Christmas was a time shortly after the end of World War I. My father had returned home safely from the war and our Christmas was the gift of togetherness after several years of my father being gone.

Another special memory for me was when I returned home at Christmas after taking my first job in another town. Seeing my family again after being away for almost a year helped me appreciate the family traditions that we all shared and the unique bonds that existed in our family.

Later in my life I remember with fondness the first Christmas that I was married. Learning about my husband’s family traditions, sharing my family traditions with my new spouse, and starting our own holiday traditions as a couple made this holiday season very memorable me.

Another special Christmas was when my husband and I became parents for the first time and learned about the joy that children can bring to Christmas. I don’t remember much about the material things during Christmas times with our children but instead I recall the children’s laughter, excitement, and the warmth of togetherness.

My first Christmas as a grandparent was also very special. My perspective and
responsibility were now different and watching traditions from the past carried forward held great meaning for me.

As we get older, reflection about past holidays can also be shared with new
friends and family. These treasured memories are priceless in making the holiday season something to anticipate each year.

A happy senior adult in Minnesota.