THE LETTER WHICH CAN'T BE SENT



Beyond the common sounds, sights and scents of the Holidays - calamitously beautiful light displays, music both schmaltzy and sacred, and pine/cinnamon/mint in varying degrees of intensity, there are other subtle tones. The houses so gaudily decorated actually seem to move closer - at least for a moment or two. Despite the press of completing the task list, people are - in person at least, a shade or two more likely to exchange a grin, a clasp, a friendly remark. The California sky never looks like this in the other eleven months. Clear weather brings feathery clouds with a stunning backlight, provided by a Sun lower on the horizon than any other time of the rolling year. And with all of these signs and indicators, comes the excuse to look at pictures and watch films seen repeatedly, noting nuance after nuance not previously observed, with a reverence. It is time for other annual traditions, too. Is the tree straight or crooked? Who is the greatest Carol-Crooner of all time? Cole? Williams? Crosby? Sinatra? Surely not the King? It is a time for great joy and reflection. Is your favorite memory "reading" the Sears Wish Book from cover to cover in covetous desire for all of the joys within? Is it the appearance of a particular iconic Seasonal display? Is it reading the Inscription on Clarence's Book - the greatest unspoken line in a movie ever, and welling up like a 3 year old with a freshly-skinned knee? Is it who you hope to see, to touch, to share a laugh (or a toast) with as the grand day approaches? Reflection can lead to sadness, for the "people and things that went before." Tomorrow would have notched number 64 for LOST's brother the Christmas Nut. His laugh, his silly jokes, his propensity for blurting out pop culture lines from commercials, films, or even corny TV ads so terribly missed right now. His midwifery passed the sense of humor from our father to all of the siblings, and his passing has, despite the troubles in his life, left a huge void that is impossible to ignore that this otherwise festive time. So please, wherever you are, raise a glass, or a glance to the heavens, and toast or benediction to someone who has supplied you with great lightness at this Season, living or deceased. And if they are still among us, use the phone. They'd love to hear you say it, and I promise you that if you do, you will feel wonderfully light and airy.