Page 77 of The Secret to Belonging

pushes off and hops on

you glide down the dark street

winter sparkles under the waning moon

a blanket of quiet and peace

he stops at the bottom of the hill by the church

walks you around the great stone building

it’s still and silent

the quintessential silent night

then

a fairyland appears

the entire churchyard glows in candlelight

a flame on every grave, reflecting on the snow

a norsk tradisjon, he says

to remember our loved ones at juletid

so beautiful

so moving

you think of your family at home

you hope

they’ve experienced their own Christmas miracle

their own small moments of peace and joy

you hope

even pray

but

you’re glad

you’re right where you are

wrapped in candlelight

and love

SEKS (SIX)

you are so excited

for the week after Christmas