It started on Christmas Eve some 10 or so years ago, when we were gathered around the fireplace listening to music after celebrating the day with mom’s side of the family.
A few minutes shy of midnight, we were sipping cocktails and telling stories when Handel’s Messiah came over the speaker – or what may be better known as the Hallelujah.
Dad’s eyes lit up. “I love this song!” as he started to get up from his seat. “Let’s go out on the deck and toast to Christmas!”
So we bundled in our coats and filled our glasses, filing outside as Dad cranked the music up on the outdoor speakers. I’m sure we gave the neighbors a startle that first year – as Hallelujah echoed through the quiet of night. We laughed and toasted one another watching the neighborhood lights flick on and blinds separate in curiosity. It was one of those beautiful moments that can only happen when you don’t plan it – and so beautiful that it’s become a tradition year-over-year.
And, my, how it’s grown. We get upwards of 30 visitors, and friends and family that can’t be here join us at midnight in a toast from other corners of the world. The Hallelujah has become a party itself. Each year there are more people, and even funnier santa hats for them to wear. It’s such an amazing way to welcome the holiday and was dad’s absolute favorite tradition. I think it’s all of ours too.
It was hard last year doing it without him, but I’d have it no other way. And this year – we’ll march out on the deck again and blare the Hallelujah across the canal, celebrating Christmas and saluting dad.
It’s a rather lovely way to keep him a part of the day – by doing what he loved.
So if you find yourselves awake when midnight melts into Christmas, pick up a glass from wherever you are and cheers to the holiday, the loved ones you’re with, and the loved ones who are always in our hearts.
And with that, I leave this toast. Merry Christmas.
Take to the night and rejoice, in winter’s weary hold
And when the music hums, raise your voice to what’s beyond life’s fold
As midnight tolls make a toast, as the Hallelujahs rise
For those we lost but loved the most, their love within us never dies
A REKD GIRL 