Living Like Wise Men: A Thank You to Richard and Ruth

Dec 17, 2009

The photo above was taken of three ceramic wise men that we purchased about 35 years ago at our church’s Christmas craft sale.  We have always treasured these three wise men ornaments.  This is our first empty-nester Christmas, and we pause to chuckle as we recall our kids arguing over who got to hang the wise guys on the tree.  In fact our attorney daughter, Diana, has annually insisted that she is the one to inherit these wise ones after we have passed away.  Sometimes she tries to take them home with her, even though we’re still here.

For us, Christmas is one of our two high holidays, and these ornaments have me pondering their special message of Christmas.  The dear couple who crafted these ornaments have been dear friends and mentors over the years.  But like all of us, time has passed and these gentle people are now clients of our elder law firm.  For decades they have quietly worked to care for those around them.  In a way, when you saw this couple, it was if you were looking upon the wise men—since their hands were always bearing gifts to enrich those around them.

Well, now they have moved into an assisted living center and they’re not as able to make crafts for an annual sale.  When I recall their lives of overflowing love, charity, and faith, I know that I, too, have been visited by the wise men—wise men who have brought precious gifts to me and to those around me.

May all of us who claim the Christmas Creed act in love, to bless the lives of those around us.  May we be wise men!

Rick