A candle is a small thing.
But one candle can light another.
And see how its own light increases, as a candle gives its flame to the other.
You are such a light.
Moshe Davis and Victor Ratner
Such a short poem, yet so profound in many ways … and even better in the season of the lights. On the religious side of 2016, Christians and Jews have celebrations on December 24th – Christmas Eve and the first day of Hanukkah. Three days earlier was another day that provides spirituality for many – the Winter Solstice. Toss in the fact that Christmas also serves as a secular celebration for many, these days impact many.
To me, Santa Claus is a symbol that crosses all cultures – all people – simply because he is the symbol of goodness. After all, goodness across the world as it transcends religions, languages, cultures, skin colors, gender, ages, sexual orientations, and even politics.
As my regulars know well, I enjoy using videos in many of my posts. In the spirit of Santa’s goodness, thank you for all the joys you give me through your interaction here and for your posts. Even through all the craziness in the world, the good feed off each other.
Enjoy any or all of the music selections of the season that are below … but I appreciate knowing which you enjoyed … so stay as long as you wish.
For all who find peace and renewal through the Winter Solstice.
For all finding the light shining bright through the night.
For all who appreciate the music of the season done a different way A few weeks ago we heard – Little Drummer Boy done to the rhythms of Ravel’s Bolero.
For the many regulars here who enjoy The Piano Guys … (I had to include them.)
For all who appreciate the music of other cultures (This one has stuck with me ever since I saw this in person many years ago).
For the fans of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, who meld their words with the beauty of Pachelbel’s Canon.
For all who find awe and wonder in deep space with this classic.
For all attracted to one of the most beautiful natural lights of the season – the Aurora Borealis – and set to my favorite version of a classic tune of the season.
Whether it be Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Christmas, Happy Holidays or whatever greeting you prefer, I issue a greeting of your choosing for the season … plus Peace and Joy to all!
I love candlelight, Frank, there is something very magical and relaxing in it.
My visiting, replying, commenting and the like have fallen a little by the wayside of late, for which I apologise, but wanted to call by today and wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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Tom,
Glad you are the first here all the way from jolly ol’ England, and no apologies necessary … after all, you are a prolific publisher who also replies to all who comment – and that takes time! Carry on, kind sir. Merry Christmas to you! Did you watch any gifts?
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I love candles–even the fake candles we’ve been “lighting” recently. When my girls were in high school, their Latin teacher used to give her students Saturnalia candles to light at home.
Happy Holidays, Frank!
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Merril,
Cheers to greetings from New Jersey! Candles are symbolic in many ways – and all are about the single light and it’s warmth. Best of holiday wishes to you. Did you watch any gifts?
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A very fine post as we head into Hanakkah and Christmas! The poem should inspire us all to do what we can wherever we are to bring light. I especially liked the interfaith graphic. You are an inspiration always. Happy holidays, Frank, and thanks for the music. I listened to Little Drummer Boy first and loved the connection to Bolero as the drummer plays the same notes throughout the piece in Bolero. I will come back later and listen to the others. Cheers!
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CC,
Great choice. I heard this piece for the first time recently at the Cincinnati Pops holiday concert. Fascinating. At the same concert, the director read the poem and his on extension. Simply wonderful, so I had to feature it. Meanwhile, best holiday wishes to you and yours!
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Yes, you are always inspirational, Frank. Peace and joy to you, and all of yours. 😀
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Archon!
The bright intellectual star from the north! 🙂 … Many thanks, … and hope you found a video to enjoy in this selection.
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I was torn between the Drummer Boy and Silent Night. I then sent with Silent Night as it was instrumental and had such a beautiful display of lights in the video. Happy holidays to you and thanks for hosting such a magnificent party! 🙂
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Christy,
Thanks for coming by … after all, Canadians are always welcome. Good choice of videos. The Drummer Boy version is so interesting … and this version of Silent Night is my favorite – plus the way it includes the Northern Lights … a wonderful match. Best holiday wishes to you!
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Let’s have cheers over eggnog! It’s such a grand party here 🙂
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I appreciate your presence!
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For me this is the season of peace and joy Frank – I wish it were so for everyone, no matter where in the world they are. I managed to watch two of the videos, have put another couple into my ‘watch later’ bag and now have actual guests I must attend to. So sorry to be here briefly, but I did enjoy what I saw 🙂 Have the best of Christmas celebrations and I look forward to catching up with you in 2017 ❤
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Pauline,
Being in New Zealand, you day is ahead of ours. Heck, you are in the midst of Christmas Eve at the moment! Those in your region of the world determined my publishing time. 🙂 … Peace and joy is a wonderful theme for the season – actually good any day and all the time. But the season serves as a good reminder. Enjoy your guests and those two wonderful pets! Cheers to your holiday celebrations!
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Waiting for sunset on Christmas Eve is like standing toes-over-the-edge on a high diving board.
Every year we’d cruise casually by the window to keep an eye on the sun’s progress until it was officially evening.
Then the shout “Christmas Eve Gift!” would ring out.
You see, the traditions says that the first person to voice that phrase on Christmas Eve to another would be graced with good fortune and joy all the next year.
(And of course, whomever was first won. Everything was a contest…)
It’s more difficult to be first now with caller ID.
As all those who have become my friends in blogland are spread widely across time zones, I’d like to wish you all “Christmas Eve GIft” now.
And as I already feel so fortunate to have such wonderful readers and writers in this neighborhood, I wish to share any phrase acquired good fortune and joy with you in thanks.
No matter where you are or what you are guided by, hope you have a very merry Christmas and a new year full of adventure and joy.
Peace on earth and goodwill towards all creatures great and small.
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Mouse,
Much to chew in your comment. The Christmas Eve sunset is seems like a wonderful tradition. You caused me to check the Galveston forecast, so I hope enough clouds won’t be in the way. … and your closing phrase – perfect! Merry Christmas to you, yours, Mollie, and RC.
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Sunny today and close to 80 so a bright start.
Listen for those reindeer hooves tonight. RC sent instructions you definitely were on the “nice” list.
Merry merry!
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Peace Frank. At least until he’s got the nuclear codes.
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Peace to you and yours in northern Virginia … although I’m sure Duncan prefers more frantic. Here’s one for you .. http://tinyurl.com/h2s94xb .. Merry Christmas.
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Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful, Signore… I listened to each and every one. I loved A Fire For You (Winter Solstice)
I guess it is because it makes me think a little of George Winston and I could include the whole “December” album here, but will just leave you with some “Joy”
A very Merry Christmas to you, Frank and to Mrs. Right Angle! xo
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Dale,
Wow … you watched all of them! … and even from the wonderful province of Quebec. Not sure which would be my fav because each carries it’s own symbolism. Ahhhhh … George Winston … his music is so peaceful – gotta love it. It’s playing right now in another tab, so it will continue! Merry Christmas to you, your sons, and your friends. Keep smiling!
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Yes, I did and I know what you mean about each one having a special place in your heart. I’ve a few myself!
So happy you enjoyed the George Winston !
Loe from Boucherville! xo
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Christmas Eve plans?
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Yep! My sister Tracy’s annual party, Christmas brunch at my place (eldest took his dad’s place) and Christmas dinner at my sister Lisa’s.
Gotta love traditions…
And vous, Monsieur?
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A full plate in more ways than one … and now I recall that your eldest jumped right in! A toast to his efforts!!!!
For us – low key – Handbells at church takes up 5 hours tonight (rehearsal + 2 services) … having father-in-law over tomorrow … then a neighbor’s party Christmas evening.
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A wonderfully full plate indeed! Buon natale!
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A great collection, Frank. Happy Christmas to you and yours
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Derrick,
Cheers to you in the UK. Did you have any video favorite here? Happy Christmas to you and your family.
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The Little Bolero Drummer Boy – sorry, I meant to have said. 🙂
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No apologies necessary as I was curious … great choice … love the creativity of the idea. Enjoy Christmas Eve.
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Merry Christmas!!
Great song selection.
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Audra,
Bringing your Christmas cheer all the way from Connecticut makes me smile. Did you have a favorite video? Merry Christmas to you and all that is yours!
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Love the poem choice, Frank. Merry Christmas to you! May it be safe, warm, and joyous.
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Carrie,
Your presence today caused a smile. Many thanks! Merry Christmas to you and your family. Cheers to your inner extrovertness. 🙂
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Hehe, I’m not sure extroversion applies to me anywhere, but I’ll take it. 🙂
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It may be in your inner abyss but it’s there.🍷
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I think it’s more that I’ve just learned to play the game over the years. 😉
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That will work! 🙂
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If that doesn’t get a person in the holiday spirit, I don’t know what will! You’re an angel! ❤
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Lorna,
Thank you … so which video did you enjoy the most?
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Oh dear, I can’t remember now. 😦
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Very enriching and beautiful post Frank. The Christmas carols are lovely and enjoyed listening. Merry Christmas Frank and good wishes to you and yours.
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Dilip,
I welcome greetings from India! 🙂 … Did you have a favorite video here? Merry Christmas!
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Oh my, now that certainly was a nice gift. I hope you and your family are enjoying your Christmas day.
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Karen,
Greetings from sunny, warm Florida is welcome up here. Did you have a favorite tune in these selections?
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Frank, it is like our children, we are not supposed to have a favorite. I really did enjoy each and everyone in their beautiful and diverse way but if I must pick…it would be the piano guys. I loved the music but it was the scenes of the nativity that really made it special to me. When I was a little girl, I remember my parents driving us into Houston from our ranch to see the nativity scene where parishioners of several of the churches would recreate the nativity story in front of their churches. It was something special that I will not forget. As I said, you gave us a wonderful Christmas gift. Merry Christmas once again!
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Glad one was able to link back to a personal story. Yes, each is different and special in their own way, which also means the answer is different for everyone … hence why I ask. Thanks for sharing!!!!
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Beautiful songs, Thank you dear Frank. Merry Christmas, Love, nia
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Nia,
Many thanks for stopping by all the way from Turkey. Did you have a favorite video?
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Little Drummer Boy, and the last one 🙂 And I did something, they started at the same time and I can listen to them both at the same time, it is so beautiful, try once 🙂 You are welcome and Thank you dear Frank, you know distance is nothing except not written in the heart. Blessing and Happiness, Love, nia
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Candles have a mesmerizing effect and I love watching them. They can be enchanting and hypnotic.
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Long live Santa Clause and all goodness!
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