And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh. (Matthew 2:8-11)
Putting up my mom's manger scene means it's Christmas. Without it, Christmas is not happening. As a kid, it was always my favorite part of decorating: finding where each piece should go, situating them just right. Every year, when I set it up, I feel my mom's spirit guiding me.
This year, especially, I need her guidance. It's been a rough year, and the roughness is not quite over yet. I have had a hard time finding my Christmas spirit this year. But every time I look at the manger scene I am reminded that she is looking out for me and my family, especially when times are toughest.
