Those familiar with my musical tendencies already know I’m not a big fan of Christmas music. It’s not some politically-correct bent about the commercialization of Christmas (and other holidays, for that matter). Nor is it an anti-religious thing. It’s something very simple. I was born on December 28th and have been cheated by the season all my life. (I know it’s bitter but I gotta let it out.)
If you were born in the same time period, I can spare you my rant about the unfairness of Christmas/birthday combination gifts. However, I reserve the right to revisit that subject before the end of this post by tugging at your heartstrings with my sad story of rationing my gifts (opening half on Christmas and the other half on my birthday). But for now, I won’t discuss it. Nor will I mention the lack of birthday parties because the stork couldn’t wait until after January 1st. No, I won’t mention that either. Instead, as I turn down the sympathy violins, I’ll just take a few moments to recommend some Christmas music. 
What’s different this year, you ask? Well, sit down and let Daddy tell you all about it. A few days ago, on a flight from Ottawa to Atlanta, I sat next to a retired teacher/principal who has embarked on a journey of spiritual awareness. She was on her way to a retreat in Florida. Now normally, I prefer my flights with as little interaction as possible (no flight attendant, no beverage, just sleep). However, Sylvia was loquacious, engaging and filled me with enough of the seasonal spirit that I actually heard the words she was saying, instead of the voice of Charlie Brown’s teacher.
So, because of Sylvia, this year’s Christmas recommendation is significantly less twisted than last year’s John Waters compilation; though last year’s recommendations (listen) are quite enjoyable. I’m digging into the archives to pull out an old favorite … We Wish You A Merry Christmas from Take 6. If you’re not familiar with Take 6, you’re missing out on one of the most critically-acclaimed a cappella singing groups of all time. This Alabama sextet has been wowing crowds for nearly 30 years.
Sylvia and I had discussions on a variety of topics. (I never regretted not taking my customary nap.) The recurring theme in her topics centered on discovering your life’s purpose and pursuing it in a way that added joy to your world. As Sylvia would say “Find your candle … light it with love … use it for good.”
Happy Holidays Everyone!
Let It Snow
Go Tell It On The Mountain
The Christmas Song
Joy To The World
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Tags: Band, Music, Take 6, United States
