No Room in the Inn

For those who read blogs, you know that I don't update too often. I could rattle on about everyday things that only interest me, but that wouldn't be fun for you, the reader. With that said, I obviously have something to write about this morning.

Gene and I will celebrate our 37th anniversary on Thursday. While it hasn't been the easiest 37 years of my life, it has been great. I have learned too much to even begin to write about. Those of you who know my Geno, know that the man is a recluse, a hermit, a homebody. The man would be content to never leave home. I like to think that it's because I'm here, and while that may be a part of it, I know better. BUT - within the last couple of years, he has become more outgoing. Last night, I understood.

Let me get to my story. Last night was the Hacienda Heights Community Christmas Concert at Saint John Vianny's church. Our Stake Choir always participates. Gene had already had a long day with another ahead of him so I 'excused' him from going to the concert (which he was going to do to support ME). Our choir was the first to perform. We returned to our seats and I see Gene, about 8 rows ahead of us, get up and walk out, only to return a few minutes later to usher a couple of men to seats with our choir. When we got home, I was still pumped up about the evening and Gene was quiet - not unusual for either of us. Then he wanted to talk. He said, "I was sitting in the seats your choir would occupy, and a man approached two homeless men, who were 2 rows in front of me (in the man's choir's seats). The man told these two men they couldn't sit there so they got up and went to stand in the back corner. One of the men had a crippled arm." Then he proceeded to tell me how it made him feel for this choir man to remove these two men - in church, at Christmas, when the Christmas spirit of giving and loving was so strong. It bothered him so much, he got up (it was only a few seconds later) , found these men and escorted them to our choir seats. One of them asked Gene if he thought it would be ok if he used the bathroom. Gene told him of course it would be. He returned to sit next to Gene, in the warmth of the sanctuary and the Christmas Spirit to fill his soul.

I have witnessed a mighty change come about right in front of my eyes during the last 37 years. I married a good man - now I'm married to a great and kind man, who had evolved into a compassionate follower of Christ, loving not only those in his station, but all mankind. My heart was truly touched by the Spirit of Christmas last night, right in my own home by the person I love the most in the world.

I need no gifts under the tree to make Christmas this year. I received the greatest gift last night, when Gene found 'room in the Inn' for two men, searching for warmth, love and the Spirit of Christmas.

May your Christmas be filled with the love and compassion I witnessed last night.