Letter From the Editor in Chief
Hey Patriots!
I hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving break, filled with lots of food, celebration and joy. As we enter December and close out the year, we at The Patriot are excited to present our Christmas-themed issue to you. Inside readers will find all Christmas-based articles, including dorm room Christmas, international Christmas traditions, Christmas algorithms and much more. We are also featuring two holiday-themed short stories. Congratulations to Piper Grant and Brooklyn Newby for winning our short story competition. Both short stories showcase phenomenal writing, capturing the warmth and wonder of the season in unique and memorable ways. We’re excited to share their creativity with our readers and hope their work adds an extra spark of holiday magic to this issue. You can read their stories on pages A6 and A8.
Personally, my favorite holiday is Christmas. I love spending time with my family, enjoying the traditions and savoring all the delicious food. This year, I will be going home to Sweden for the holidays. I haven’t been home for Christmas since freshman year, so getting to go home this year feels extra meaningful. However, for those who don’t know, Sweden is a Nordic country in Europe, which means there will be cold weather and shorter days. Because Sweden is so far north, sunrise comes late, and sunset often occurs as early as 3 p.m., which can be pretty depressing. It’s not as bad as you’d think. Usually, the snow helps lighten things up, and the whole town feels cozy even when it gets dark early.
As the fall semester comes to a close and a second round of finals approaches, I know things can get stressful. My biggest advice for you all is to take things one step at a time and give yourselves some grace. You’ve all made it this far and now it is just the final sprint of the marathon. That’s part of why our staff worked hard to make this issue a fun, cheerful escape from finals stress. We hope these Christmas articles and holiday short stories can bring a little bit of comfort and joy to your week.
I would like to thank everyone who has contributed and volunteered for the newspaper this fall semester. It has been a blessing to work with everyone and see all your hard work. We hope to see you all at our next meeting on January 12, where we will discuss spring issues. I also want to take a moment to recognize our amazing staff. Producing a themed issue has not been easy; it has required a great deal of passion, creativity, and teamwork. Watching our staff come together to brainstorm ideas, write thoughtful pieces, and design each page has been one of the highlights of my semester
From all of us at The Patriot, we wish you a Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and a restful winter break.
Lots of love,
Filippa Malmström Editor-In-Chief
Staff
Editor- in- Chief Filippa Malmström
Managing Editor
Ally Kennedy
Staff Writers
Katrina Campbell
Jillian Cross
Sydney Dingus
Eli Dunn
Lily Fabela
Ximena Melendez Hernandez
Taylor Moren
Kasey Padgett
Sydney Taylor
Emily Zecchini
Staff Photographers
Faith Baker
Kurstyn Ison
Abigail McKamey
Faculty Advisor
Jeremiah Massengale
Local Spirit
A Christmas of Caring God’s Food Pantry Helps Feed Neighbors Through the Winter Season
BY: SYDNEY
Norma Dunston, is the Director of First Baptist Church Williamsburg God’s Food Pantry. Dunston was hired to work as a secretary for the church office and stepped into the role when the previous food pantry director became ill. “I sort of just fell into it, and then I fell in love with it,” Dunston said. After retiring as office administrator, she continued to fill community needs through her work with the pantry. “I’ve been doing this since 2009,” she said, “and I have loved every minute of it. You’re accomplishing something. You’re meeting some real basic needs.”
During mid-November, God’s Food Pantry was able to serve 97 families. Dunston emphasized this number and repeated, “97 families!” She commented on the annual increase in need that the pantry typically sees in winter and around the holidays, but also highlighted the fear many people of Williamsburg felt when SNAP payments were initially delayed by the federal government shutdown in early November. “This month the need has
just really skyrocketed,” she said.
Through her work, Dunston has met people from all over the greater Williamsburg community. She said that “they are doing the best they can” and come to the church’s food pantry for many diverse reasons. Some are “struggling with generational poverty and health issues,” while others are dealing with unexpected crises. “Such as if the car breaks down, ‘Do I buy groceries or do I pay my rent?’ If there is a major health issue, ‘Do I buy medicine or do I buy food?’”
The pantry is able to supplement these real-world issues through government funds, local supporters including UC, First Baptist Church Williamsburg, the God’s Food Pantry board, and the service of Cumberlands students. The church is host to a regular food pantry as well as a backpack program.
“We serve families once a month, always on the third Wednesday of the month,” Dunston said. “We try to give them enough food just to get them through the end of the month.”
The backpack ministry has an Amazon wish list where anyone can order food items and have them shipped directly to the food pantry for specific local school children who have been identified as food insecure. “These bags have entrees, breakfasts, snacks, and something fun because they’re for kids,” Dunston said. Each bag goes home in students’ backpacks to last them through the weekend without school food.
Recently, God’s Pantry changed the terminology of the people they serve. “Instead of clients, they are now our neighbors,” Dunston said. “These are our neighbors that we are helping. They’re the people who are in need and who our children and grandchildren go to school with. They are people who we work with.”
Pats Serve was initiated in 2018 and is a community service program which Cumberlands students are required to participate in during their first three years of college. Pat Serve is a way for the campus community, including faculty, staff and alumni, to show gratitude to the tri-county region.
Before Pats Serve got started, teams would come in to do some community service. It wasn’t
every month, but it was helpful. “But I mean, [Pats Serve] was wonderful because we had students during the school year who helped us a lot because it’s a major undertaking [for the church alone],” Dunston said.
Dunston commented on the effect of UC volunteers. “Oh, it’s wonderful. We’ve had some of the most wonderful students come through who have gotten very engaged in this particular ministry and with the backpack ministry,” she said. She expressed the joy she feels when students come one semester to serve and then each semester afterward.
“We really appreciate their effort,” Dunston said. “It’s exciting to see them get excited about really making the difference, to know that what they do matters. You’re feeding people. What could be more important?”
Those who are looking to foster a fuller community, especially during this season of giving, should listen to Norma Dunston’s encouragement. “Come get involved because you can make a difference and find ways to invest in your society,” she said. “It isn’t busy work, you know, you’re feeding your neighbors. It matters.”
DINGUS STAFF WRITER
PHOTO BY SYDNEY DINGUS
PHOTO BY SYDNEY DINGUS
PHOTO BY SYDNEY DINGUS
Student Festivities International Christmas A Look at how Christmas Traditions Shine in Different Corners of the World
BY: FAITH BAKER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Across the world, the arrival of December brings a wide range of sights, traditions and celebrations. In some places, summer sunshine stretches across beaches; in others, winter winds invite families indoors to share warm meals and familiar rituals. Communities decorate their homes and gather with loved ones in ways shaped by their cultures, climates and beliefs. Though the season looks different from one country to the next, each region finds its own way to mark the holiday. But what is happening in other countries during this season? From New Zealand’s seaside barbecues in the middle of summer to Qatar’s family-andchurch celebrations, the holiday season takes many different forms around the world.
Going to the beach and having barbecues, for most people in the U.S., is confined June, July, and August. But on the other side of the world –New Zealand – December marks the beginning of summer. Piper Grant, a freshman at UC, who is originally from New Zealand and now spends part of the year in North Carolina, shared what Christmas looks like for her and her family. Instead of bundling up against the cold, people in New Zealand can lay out on the beach, tan, barbecue and go swimming on Christmas Day.
Their holiday food also reflects the
season. Instead of eating a roasted turkey or ham with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, New Zealanders often enjoy seafood such as fish and chips. Grant said a popular Christmas dessert is Pavlova, a meringue-based dessert featuring a crisp shell and soft center topped with whipped cream and fruits like strawberries and kiwis.
Like most Americans, New Zealanders also have their own version of a Christmas tree –just not one that sits in their living room. These trees, called pōhutukawa, are protected in many areas and require special permission to be cut down. They bloom throughout December with bright red flowers and are seen as New Zealand’s symbol of Christmas. Some traditions overlap with those in the United States. Much like our own caroling, people will gather outside to sing Christmas carols by candlelight, and many towns hold Christmas parades with floats and bands.
Grant said that her favorite part of the holiday season is spending time with her family. “In New Zealand, I get to see all my family during Christmas, and in the U.S., I usually go snowboarding with my boyfriend’s family in New Hampshire over the holidays which I also love.” While New Zealand’s Christmas holiday is filled with warm weather and going to the beach, Qatar’s looks very different.
Unlike the U.S. and New Zealand, Qatar has a much different atmosphere surrounding Christmas because it is a predominantly Muslim country. As a result, Christmas is not widely celebrated. However, Ebby Matthew, another UC student who is from Qatar, explained that his family does celebrate and decorate their home for Christmas. He said his church hosts events such as Christmas markets and caroling, creating a more intimate atmosphere than the commercialized parades and Santa-focused celebrations common in the U.S. Without the overwhelming presence of advertising and shopping, Christmas in Qatar focuses more on the real meaning behind the holiday – the birth of Jesus.
Matthew states that what he finds frustrating about Christmas in the U.S. is how easily some people miss the message of Jesus’ birth, saying “Americans tend to miss the point of Christmas too,” he said. “It’s not just about the lights or gifts;
its true meaning is to celebrate the birth of Christ and being reminded of his life on earth and the gift of salvation that he gave to all of us.”
Still, Matthew said he loves how beautiful some of the decorated houses are in the U.S. and appreciates how many Christians remind themselves of the holiday’s purpose. He also admires ministries such as Appalachian Ministries, which provide clothes, gifts and other necessities to children who may not otherwise have access to them – a practice he believes reflects the true meaning of Christmas. In the ‘normal’ American Christmas,’ Junior Wesley Tucker says, ‘My family celebrates Christmas a little bit different every year…’” His warm, familiar routine of presents, food, movies, and gathering by candlelight to hear Luke chapter 2 reflects traditions many U.S. families recognize. Yet around the world, Christmas can look very different.
From Grant’s beachy New Zealand holiday, Matthew’s traditions in Qatar, Tucker’s American traditions to the snowy Christmas in Kentucky, it’s clear that Christmas looks a little different depending on where you stand in the world. Despite the many differences between these places, the true meaning still shines through - spending time with family and reflecting on the sacrifice that Jesus made by coming into the world. While these global traditions highlight our unique customs, they also remind us of what we share. In the end, this holiday season brings us all closer together more than it sets us apart.
PHOTO COURTESY OF EBBY MATTHEW
PHOTO COURTESY OF WESLEY TUCKER
PHOTO COURTESY OF PIPER GRANT
Holiday Cheer Finds a Home in UC’s Dorms
BY: JILLIAN CROSS STAFF WRITER
As the semester winds down and finals approach, students at the University of the Cumberlands are finding creative ways to bring holiday spirit to campus. Dorm rooms across UC are lighting up with string lights, small trees and tinsel as students make their temporary spaces feel a bit more like home.
For Delany Deaton of Archer Hall, decorating is all about creating a cozy, familiar atmosphere that reminds her of the comfort she has at home. “I decided to decorate because my room feels homey when I have a Christmas tree up,” Deaton said. “It feels cozier and just sort of like I have a piece of home here.”
Many students have decorated their dorms this year to follow long-standing family traditions, whether that involves decorating on a specific day or adhering to a specific theme. Although Deaton did not follow a specific tradition, she said the environment she created still brings her a similar sense of warmth. “I would not say I necessarily followed through on a family tradition,” Deaton said, “but my room feels a little like home because of the coziness.” While some students struggle to find room in their budgets for holiday décor, Deaton said she approached it thoughtfully. “There were not necessarily any financial struggles when I purchased my decorations, but it was a commitment,” Deaton said. “I try not to buy stuff if I will not actually use it/take care of it. So I knew I had to be willing to store it properly and take care of it for it to last.”
Budgeting, space and practicality are common challenges in dorm living, but those obstacles have not stopped students from spreading holiday cheer. For many, decorating offers a way to unwind from stress and make campus life feel brighter during the busiest time of the semester.
Another UC student, Julie Lay of Ash-
A Touch of Home for the Holidays
er Hall, said decorating is something she looks forward to every year. “Decorating the dorm is always a fun experience,” Lay said. “I think it is fun to be able to decorate in new ways every year in my own space and with new people.” Like Deaton, Lay said decorations make the school feel more welcoming and festive during the busy time of year. “I wanted to decorate here at school because it makes it feel more like home,” Lay said. “I love to decorate for every holiday, here and at home. It makes coming back to school more fun.”
Of course, decorating is not always easy on a college student’s wallet. Between buying gifts, paying tuition and budgeting for everyday expenses, even small purchases can add up. “There were not too many challenges when decorating,” Lay said. “I think the main thing was decorating on a budget, of course, and figuring out what vibe we wanted to go with.”
Dorm décor varies from room to room. Every student decorates in their own way and style, showing how the holiday can bring everyone together despite their differences. Some people opt for a minimalist look, while others go all out. Some stick to a theme, and others mix and match.
Regardless of the decorating style, each decorated dorm brings personality and warmth to campus. Walking through the dorms, students can spot the glow of lights through the windows and hear faint Christmas music playing behind closed doors. Many share ideas on TikTok, trade extra ornaments with roommates and find new ways to decorate their space without spending much money.
For many, the experience is more than just aesthetics; it’s about finding comfort and connection amidst a hectic season. Being away from family during the holidays can be tough, especially for firstyear students, and decorating offers a way to keep old traditions alive while creating new ones with friends.
The small touches, like a garland on a shelf, a tree in the corner or a string of lights along the
window, add up to something meaningful. They make studying for finals a bit less stressful and bring warmth to the cold December nights in Williamsburg, at least when the weather decides to stay cold. As winter break approaches, some students will take down their decorations early, while others will hold out until the very last minute. A few dorms may still be glowing with Christmas lights well into spring, and some students may even keep them up until move-out day. Even though most students won’t be on campus to celebrate the holidays, the spirit of the season will remain present. Sharing the excitement before heading home will be part of the fun and part of the magic here at UC. For a few weeks each year, the University of the Cumberlands will shine a little brighter, thanks to the effort students put into making their small spaces feel like home.
PHOTO BY JILLIAN CROSS
PHOTO COURTESY OF DELANEY DEATON
PHOTO BY JILLIAN CROSS
PHOTO COURTESY OF DELANEY DEATON
Campus Christmas
Reconnecting With Christmas
Why Christmas Feels Different in College and How to Enjoy the Season
PHOTO BY ABIGAILMCKAMEY
BY: ELI DUNN STAFF WRITER
During the holiday season, it’s easy to get sidetracked by everything going on and forget why we celebrate in the first place. For many college students, what once felt magical can start to feel repetitive or out of reach during a busy semester. Instead of excitement, we’re often left with memories of how happy we used to feel at this time of year. College students like John Saylor even said, “Sometimes it can seem as if Christmas has lost all of its meaning.” So what can we do? How do we get that familiar holiday cheer back?
One challenge is the academic calendar. At a time when we would rather be cozy watching a Christmas movie, many of us are cramming for exams and hoping we haven’t failed something. This stress can lead to burnout and resentment toward the season. Simple tasks such as decorating
your dorm or apartment, listening to your favorite Christmas music while you study or scheduling one night a week to take a break can help shift your mindset from stress to the calm that this season can offer.
Being away from home doesn’t always help, either. It can be lonely thinking about your family gathered together while you sit in a cramped room you’d rather not be in, surrounded by reminders of how far away you feel. To counter that, make time for activities with friends. Consider hosting a Secret Santa or similar gatherings to create new moments and memories that can keep everyone connected until they reunite with their families. Forming new traditions not only brings joy but also strengthens your campus community.
For some, another way to reconnect with Christmas is to remember the roots of their faith, especially during this time of year. Christians observe seasons such as Advent, which culminates in the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. Observing Advent can be a good way to slow down and recenter yourself. Lighting candles, reading Scripture, singing songs of praise and praying can be grounding practices during this season. Even for those who are not religious, focusing on values like gratitude, generosity and hope can recenter you. During a time when the weather is harsh and connection can be difficult, remembering the good around us can be especially meaningful. Gratitude goes far.
It can feel impossible to reconnect with the season when the pressure to buy gifts you can’t afford is weighing on you. One way to ease that stress is to take a new approach to gift-giving. Write letters, make crafts, spend quality time with
loved ones or cook something meaningful for them. Taking the time to remember someone’s favorite food or playing their favorite game with them can go just as far, and sometimes farther than expensive gifts. Being honest with loved ones about financial pressure can also make the season feel more manageable and help you relax.
Another helpful way to shift your mindset this holiday season is to take a step back and allow yourself to relax without guilt. With assignments piling up, taking a moment to breathe can feel wrong when in reality, that is the healthy thing to do. Resting, socializing, listening to Christmas music or starting a new tradition can completely change the atmosphere around you and help restore a sense of calm. Joy is not a distraction from work; it’s something to cherish.
Ultimately, reconnecting with the holidays as a college student isn’t just about recreating childhood traditions and expecting them to feel the same. That’s unrealistic. Reconnecting to the holidays means embracing new experiences and accepting change. This season sometimes makes people want to cling to the past. When the realization sets in that it isn’t the past anymore, and when reality sets in, it’s natural to mourn what’s no longer there. However, there is a light for people to look to. A light that offers new meanings, healthy reactions and strong connections with others. It encourages us to remember, to laugh about the good times and to create something new to honor them. It may feel difficult, so let it be difficult. Embrace it. You have life to live and memories to hold on to for just a breath longer.
The Old Man’s Christmas Tale
It was Christmas Eve, 1989. The tide washed along the wild coastal shoreline, with birds singing softly behind the inland bushes. The sun was sinking behind the horizon, and the Old Man strolled leisurely along the beach with his best friend. It was a beautiful evening.
“Somewhere,” he said aloud to his friend
A Short Story By Piper Grant
as the water reached his toes every few moments, “there is a child who is waiting to see if Santa will come tonight.”
He thought about his own family, his children, and his wife. He was much older now, and his children were all grown up, living their independent, busy lives with their own children back in the city. They returned to their campsite, which was lit up softly in the dusk by the small fire he had made. The red and orange flames, licking the air with every sea gust, illuminated their surroundings.
The Old Man was a great diver, and for supper that night, he had lobster and crawfish, and mussels that he had found earlier that day. He cooked his seafood above the fire until the lobster was as red as Christmas stockings. His friend sat beside him, looking on quietly. When the food was cooked through and adequately seasoned, the Old Man sat on a washed-up log that overlooked the ocean, and they ate side by side in silence. The pink and orange sunset disappeared, and it was replaced by stars and the moon. As the night settled, the Old
Man began to talk.
“I have been alive a long while, and I feel like my time is coming to an end,” The Man said. “But before I go, I must confide in you a secret that I have not told anyone my whole life.”
His friend listened intently.
“I was a young man when the gold rush hit this country,” The Old Man continued. “Maybe eighteen, nineteen. I wanted to get as rich as the other boys who were going to the mines. I did end up finding gold, out in the mountains. Gee, it was a lot of gold. I walked up behind the fjord, following the river until I had bypassed every settlement. I hiked further still, my eyes keen for streams of gold in the rock that would shine below my feet. I found enough gold on the hike alone to leave me set for life, but still I wanted more.”
The Old Man shook his head regretfully, deep in memory. His friend still listened.
“I hiked for three months, into a valley where no man had ever been. It was beautiful: the wildlife and plants there were untouched, and the water flowed
Campus Christmas
Scrolling in a Winter Wonderland How Algorithms and Social Media Trends Affect the Holiday Season
BY: KASEY PADGETT STAFF WRITER
As October wraps up and November begins, a noticeable shift takes place in homes and on social media. While some people hold on to their Halloween decorations a bit longer, others swiftly transition to Christmas decor, eager to embrace the festive season. This raises an interesting question: when do people begin to feel the Christmas spirit? Do you find yourself putting up your tree with twinkling lights as early as November 1st, accompanied by the cheerful sound of holiday music?
For social media marketers, Christmas is not merely a last-minute rush; it is a topic they begin planning for as early as June. They carefully strategize their promotional approaches to roll out campaigns in November, aiming to attract shoppers in time for major retail events such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. University of the Cumberlands student Shi Riis says she does not mind seeing Christmas ads appear in her feed early. “I like knowing about the deals early,” she says. “It helps me get a jump on my holiday shopping, and I appreciate having the time to compare options.”
But what exactly influences our mood as the holiday season approaches? Much of it can be traced back to social media algorithms –programs designed to determine what content users see. Many people begin feeling festive right after Halloween, and particularly on November 1. That often marks the unofficial kickoff to Christmas content, from Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” echoing through stores to TikTok videos demonstrating creative tree decorations or holiday baking ideas.
“The impact of social media on holiday feelings is real,” Riis explains. “When I see someone making Christmas cookies online, it
makes me want to bake too.” Her perspective illustrates how social media can spark excitement and nostalgia, transforming mundane moments into shared experiences that remind everyone of tradition and community.
From late October through November, influencers and students alike begin sharing holiday-related content. They know that posting early increases engagement, enriching the algorithm with fresh, seasonal material. It’s fascinating to ponder why we see so many ads, emails, and promotional videos during this time. As people spend more time online shopping or gathering recipe ideas, algorithms take full advantage, delivering targeted holiday content that aligns with the users’ interests.
Among students, there seems to be a divide regarding when to start celebrating. Some enthusiastically decorate their dorm rooms in early November, while others prefer to wait until after Thanksgiving, aiming not to overlook that important holiday. Riis strikes a balanced view: “It’s perfectly fine to put up Christmas decorations in late November. Thanksgiving will be over soon enough, and the holiday season is a time to enjoy festivities.”
Holiday cheer isn’t confined to social media; it extends to streaming platforms like Spotify. In 2015, Spotify launched its “Year in Music,” which evolved into “Wrapped” in 2016. This annual feature summarizes users’ listening habits, highlighting their most-played songs, artists and genres while allowing them to share their music with friends and followers. For many, Spotify Wrapped has become a beloved tradition, allowing users to reflect on their past year through a musical lens.
Many enjoy sharing their Spotify Wrapped statistics. As they reflect on their year, it’s like flipping through a musical scrapbook of memories. This unique feature reveals personal changes and moments throughout the year,
highlighting how music deeply connects within our lives. It also serves as an annual reminder of how different music can encapsulate specific experiences. Like preparing for Christmas, Spotify Wrapped narrates a story—a story of a year filled with a mix of experiences, both joyful and challenging. As users reflect on their favorite songs or the artists that resonated with them throughout the year, it creates an emotional tie and brings a sense of nostalgia. Looking back on those moments helps remind us of the irreplaceable role music plays in our lives, closely linked to significant memories and events.
These seasonal trends reveal broader societal themes. How we choose to approach Christmas and the holiday season often involves balancing festive fun with the gratitude associated with Thanksgiving. Social media and online platforms have a significant impact on our experiences and traditions during this time of year, influencing how traditions evolve and communities connect.
As November unfolds, it becomes clear that whether someone decorates early or waits until after Thanksgiving, the influence of shared content and community surrounding the holidays is significant. Letting the Christmas spirit emerge—on our own terms—allows each person to embrace the holiday in their own meaningful way. Whether through social media interactions, the nostalgic tunes of our favorite songs, or the warmth of cherished holiday traditions, we all play a part in the joyful celebration of the season. So, what about you? How do you mark the shift into the holiday spirit?
PHOTO BY KURSTYN ISON
Holiday Stories
The Distance of December
A Short Story By
Brooklynn Newby
Iknow Christmas has arrived. The evidence is everywhere. I hear the commercials on TV, but they aren’t the same. They aren’t the old Christmas M&M or Campbell’s Soup commercials that used to ring with nostalgia. Now it’s some LEGO ad and Christmas Coke 2025 commercial, which has no echo, no rhythm, or attached memories. Christmas has come once again, but it doesn’t feel how it used to. The lights aren’t as vibrant, the snow doesn’t blind me, and the music isn’t as jolly. Everything feels dull.
I sit in the backseat of my parent’s car, headphones on, driving downtown to Christmas shop. I stare at the snow and drift to sleep. Suddenly it’s me, but little me. I am outside the glass, watching. Inside, Little Me is decorating the tree with ornaments. Christmas movies are on, the fireplace is going, there’s hot cocoa, and family is surrounding me, all happy and smiling.
A big gust of wind and snow hit me. Suddenly, I realized that’s not me anymore. I’m here, outside in the freezing snow, watching my childhood through the frozen glass.
SHORT STORY
clear, straight from a glacier. I had found paradise. That’s what I named it: Paradise Valley. It was Heaven on Earth.”
The Old Man stared out at the ocean, and his friend saw a small tear fall down his cheek. Still, the Man continued his story.
“Within a few days, I knew that I had not only found a natural paradise, but the valley was also abundant in gold. It ran through the cracks in the boulders, and chunks of it would shine in my pan when I sifted through the river bottom. There was so much, and I became hungry for more. I could have bought a palace with the amount of gold I found in the first few weeks. After only a month in that place, I hiked back out to the nearest town, bought dynamite, and set it upon the mountainside.”
The Old Man paused for a moment, reflecting.
“I blew it all up, out of my own greed. It was never the same again. The birds stopped
Knock, knock. As I tap the window, I plead with the reflection: “Please let me back in. Why can’t they hear me? Why can’t they see me? I’m cold, let me back in.” Tears flood my eyes. My handprint is left on the glass as I back away. I walk away with my head down, seeing the rainbow iridescent lights, the cheesy Christmas inflatables, and the trees in people’s windows. I see it all, but why don’t I feel as holly and jolly as these people do?
As I walked away with my head down, I felt a sharp thump against my shoulder. “Oh, I am so sorry!” a sweet voice said. A woman, maybe in her late 30s or early 40s, was staring at me, smiling. “Didn’t mean to bump into you. I just dropped off gifts at the adoption home and realized I left one behind. Would you like to have it?”
“Sure, thank you.” I looked down to open it, and she disappeared. Where did she go? If she left the gift in her car, why was she walking on the road?
As curious as I was about her, I was more curious about what was in that box. It was that kind of wrapping paper. The kind that immediately launched a thousand memories, smelling faintly of cinnamon pinecones. The box was just right. Perfectly shaped. The paper was a beautiful, vintage cream covered in classic Santas, the kind that must have come from Grandma’s attic. Everything was tied with a red ribbon and a bow too big for the box.
I started to tear the paper instantly. Inside was a simple white cardboard box. I lifted the lid, and the soft crunch of packing peanuts filled the air. It was a snow globe. The base was dark, polished wood. Inside the globe was a cozy living room with a lit fireplace and a Christmas tree with different colored balls. I picked it up; it felt heavy
and cool in my hand. I gave it a gentle shake. The glitter and fake snow swirled, catching the light in dazzling flashes, momentarily chasing away the dullness of the street. The moment the snow settled, the scene inside changed.
First, the room was exactly as I remembered it. Little Me was there, maybe six, genuinely excited, holding a handmade ornament. My parents were younger, their faces free of worry. The magic was almost too real. I felt a sharp pain of grief for that lost feeling. “Knock, knock. Let me in,” my mind whispered.
But then, the glass dome shimmered, and the scene transformed again, swiftly. The furniture was different. Standing near the tree was a kind, handsome man I didn’t recognize, his arm around an older me. She was the woman I had always hoped to become: the woman I had bumped into on the street. There were children in the home as well. My husband and I were smiling on the couch, sipping coffee and watching our kids unwrap gifts. Their joy created so much warmth that seemed almost too real. This was the family, the life, I had always secretly hoped for. The snow swirled, and the scene held an invitation, a promise.
My mind left the snow globe and returned to the street as a big snowstorm hit and covered me. I woke up in the car. I hear a whisper, “You awake, honey? We’re here,” my father said. “Yes, I’m awake.” My mind was rushing with thoughts. Maybe I didn’t need to be in the past, or skip to the future. Maybe Christmas could still be magical. I just have to believe in that joy. You are your only happiness.
singing, and the river turned brown with mud. I walked out of there with gold ingots as big as chicken eggs shoved down my boots, but I could never forget that I had ruined that place forever.”
The Old Man took a deep breath.
“I still think about Paradise Valley sometimes. I was so thoughtless. After that, I never took more than what I needed from nature. I learned to leave things the way I found them. I wish more people knew how to treat the Earth with respect.”
The Old Man’s friend sighed in understanding, and the Old Man smiled with relief. “Thanks for listening, mate. I learned my lesson. I just had to tell someone.”
The Old Man sat in the sand and leaned against the log. He hummed “Jingle Bells” as he drifted off to sleep. His best friend turned around three times in the sand and lay down next to him, licking the Old Man’s fingers happily. When the
sun’s warmth touched the beach on Christmas morning, the Old Man had returned to his paradise, and his dog never told the tale to a single soul.
GRAPHIC BY ABIGAILMCKAMEY