Christmas: "A Shining Thing"

Christmas ornament. Macro.
(Click picture for larger view)

"Whatever else be lost among the years,
Let us keep Christmas still a shining thing:
Whatever doubts assail us, or what fears,
Let us hold close one day, remembering
Its poignant meaning for the hearts of men.
Let us get back our childlike faith again."
~ Grace Noll Crowell

We bring out the shiny Christmas balls once a year to trim the tree. The lights and ornaments and tinsel mesmerize one and all, old and young; there is an unusual beauty in the simple and complex ornament alike. Some remind us of Christmases long past, others of milestones passed and still others simply add much needed whimsy to our lives.

Christmas is a time of miracles; the birth of the Christ child, the star guiding the wise men, the angel's song to the shepherds. Christmas is a time for joy; joy of family and joy of faith. Christmas is a time of giving gifts to others in remembrance of the greatest Gift already given to us in the form of a Babe in the manger. Above all, Christmas is love; God's love for humankind in the form of His Son.

Submission for MacroDay topic "Christmas". (end of post)