The question as to what someone wants for Christmas is no doubt asked numerous times each year as Christmas approaches.
Hank Snow recorded an album of Christmas songs in 1967.
One of the songs is titled “Christmas Wants” and begins by asking the question as to what you want. Snow goes on to say that your reply to that question reveals the type of person you really are.
Snow continues in the song by telling what he wants.
On his want list, he mentions friends who understand him, treating work as a privilege, helping mankind with their many problems, the ability to laugh, sincerity among people, peace and quiet, birdsong, a sense of the presence of God and others all of which would make the world a better place to live for all.
What we want for Christmas changes dramatically from childhood to adulthood and on to old age.
When I was a child, a Lionel train set was at the top of my list. I never did get the train set but did get a wind up engine that would roll across the floor. In my teenage years it was a Galaxy 500 Ford. I wound up with a Ford Falcon.
Now that I have reached what is referred to as the “sunset years” that list has changed even more and compares more closely to that of Snow’s list.
Perhaps the question should be changed from what do you want to what do you need.
There is a vast difference between the two. Material items no longer get top billing on my list. They have been replaced for more peace and quiet, even complete silence at times. Also on the list is more walks in the woods viewing God’s diverse beauty he has created for us in all seasons.
The fact of the matter is that the gift that we all needed most was given to us on the very first Christmas by the One whose birthday we celebrate on Christmas Day.
Marshall McClung is the historical columnist for The Graham Star. He can be reached via email, mcclungs@email.com.