As I heard once again the beloved classic Christmas carol, it evoked sweet memories of my mom, and with it, the simple truth of the meaning of Christmas. Months-turned-into-years since her passing, but with the imminent approach of Christmas, whenever I hear the familiar melody and lyrics of Silent Night, tears begin to slowly fall down my cheeks.
It was one of her favorite Christmas carols and continues to stand out for me. From a very young age, I was assigned the job of “family pianist” for Christmas Eve, and performed Silent Night immediately before we opened our gifts. It first began as a way for her to highlight my new-found skills, but over the years became so much more… It recalls the true meaning of Christmas, along with precious memories of mom’s love for her family. The beloved carol has long since permeated our Christmas festivities with children and grand children, and is sung right before opening presents.
As the years go by, family may wonder, “Why do we sing Silent Night every Christmas Eve?”
Long ago, when I was a young girl my mom wanted me to play it for her, and to this day, I always recall her fondly whenever I hear it. What a priceless legacy she left her family.
Silent night, holy night,
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon virgin mother and Child.
Holy Infant, so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.
Silent night, holy night,
Shepherds quake at the sight;
Glories stream from heaven afar,
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ the Savior is born,
Christ the Savior is born!
Silent night, holy night,
Son of God, love’s pure light;
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.
Silent night, holy night
Wondrous star, lend thy light;
With the angels let us sing,
Alleluia to our King;
Christ the Savior is born,
Christ the Savior is born!
