Stories learned in childhood have a special place in our minds.  This is the time in life when the stories are absorbed from parents and society without much question and are attached to strong feelings.  If one is lucky, as I feel that I am, those feelings are mostly of love. Those stories are different than the others, more permanent, dear.  Of this genre, traditional Christmas stories of Bethlehem are dear to me.  Even as a child, Santa felt superficial.  The stories of birth and quiet rejoicing have that special place in what it is that makes up Me.  This may not sound romantic to others, but it is to me.

Merry Christmas to all.