It was a beautiful afternoon the day
before Christmas. The house was
colorfully decorated, the cafeteria
dinner ready for the family of children,
grandchildren and friends. The tall
stately tree was glimmering with silver
and colored light. The air was full of
mystery and joy. All day little feet as
well as larger ones were slipping in a
side door, depositing mysterious
packages around the tree. About three
o’clock everything was in readiness
I closed my eyes for a little rest. But
opened them to take one last glance at
the tree and surroundings. I was struck
by the beauty of the packages done up
in such lovely colorful paper and tied with
gay ribbons. I thought, what beautiful
paper is created and brought out just for
one month of the year, just before Christmas,
and disappears soon after. It is artistic, gay
and colorful. I did not close my eyes again
but instead took paper and pen and put down
my thoughts about “The Beautiful Christmas
Paper” and read to the children that night and
they loved it. I submit the words to you.
Eunice Medley Trever Dougan
(Jackie’s grandmother)
This article appears in December 18-24, 2025.
