Memories of My First Christmas in Another Land

"It doesn't even feel like Christmas!" Tears welled up as I turned towards my husband. "The familiar sights and sounds that proclaim it's the Christmas Season don't exist in Beirut. No Christmas decorations brighten the stores or our neighborhood apartment buildings. No outdoor lights glow with Christmas cheer. No manger scenes are displayed in front yards. No fresh Christmas trees are available here either, and that skinny, artificial Christmas tree we bought is a far cry from our beautiful, 6-foot flocked tree last year. How are we going to celebrate Christmas in this place?" I fell into my husband's arms. Read more