Click here for the photo slideshow from the Christmas Tree Trimming Party at Prana.
Decorating a Christmas tree is an ancient ritual so endearing that it is practiced every year by millions of families around the world. Nowhere is this occasion celebrated with more joy than by our MSIA family at Prana — the “Home of the Traveler.”
It’s called a “tree trimming.” I don’t know why, for the tree is certainly trimmer before the trimming than it is afterward. But the transformation is one of the most joyous occasions of the year. It starts with what nature has already perfected. Take a cone shaped tree of fir or pine, vibrant green and sweet smelling. Bring the tree into a family home and adorn it with bright baubles, tiny lights, meaningful knickknacks and crown the whole with the Star of Bethlehem or an angel. And beneath, of course, a solid foundation of heartfelt gifts for loved ones. The result is a living symbol of hope, charity, and renewal.
The MSIA Christmas season kicked off this year on December 4th at Prana. The day began with a meeting and party for the combined staffs of the all the organizations founded by John-Roger (See accompanying article.) In the evening they were joined by volunteers, family and friends. Festivities began when all present were treated to a sumptuous feast served up by Prana’s professional chefs (don’t get me started on the dessert table, WOW!).
Following supper, Paul and Shelley Kaye, our hosts for the evening, announced that the actual tree trimming would begin. Young and old gathered round the twelve-foot high tree. The more adventurous among us climbed ladders to adorn the higher branches with brightly colored decorations. Soon it was hard to find a branch that did not hold an ornament and the transformation was complete.
As we stood back to admire our handiwork, John Morton offered a blessing for the tree, the house, the season, and all of us. Our joy was complete when John-Roger joined us for the evening and enjoyed the festivities with us.
Paul and Shelley then introduced what has become another MSIA tradition — entertainment. In the Spirit of Christmas, we joined in traditional Carols and were treated to songs and skits from our friends. The entertainers included Princess Wahini Nui Nui Cupcake of Hawaii (or some alternate universe of Hawaii) who broke the applause meter with her ode to Christmas in the South Seas. We also heard Ian Powell play the clarinet, Joanna St. Claire shared her awesome voice, Jsu Garcia and Paul Kaye did a hilarious comedy routine and Nathaniel Sharratt sang beautifully.
Of course it wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit from Santa Claus. Jolly old Saint Nic himself (also known as Jack Espey) showed up to be serenaded by Bambi Scott and to hear the Christmas wishes of kids from one to ninety-two.
It is hard to end joyous evenings like this but it is only the beginning of the season. We still have the MSIA Christmas Eve service to look forward to. Still, when celebrated like this, it really is too bad that Christmas comes but once a year.
