The piano top is bare since days ago when I dismantled the tableau.
All that remains of 600 years of tradition is securely stowed till next year, nestled in the soft newspaper shreds in which it originally came from Murcia— old tradition rests on old news.
I restarted the Nativity display tradition a few years ago, wanting to pass it on to my children and grandchildren to cherish when I am gone. My wife kindly indicates her loving appreciation of it.
Each year, assembling the tableau is a meaningful meditation for me on Providence, and care for all creatures. For a few weeks it gives me comfort during Advent and Christmas.
The quiet joy I felt while arranging it still warms my heart and strengthens my resolve to strive for a compassionate world and speak truth to power, to indolence, to cynicism.
There is much to do in 2026 and it is time to re-engage in our efforts to fend off the tyranny of the POTUS. It is similar to Robert Frost’s Stopping by The Woods on a Snowy Evening: we do have promises to keep and miles to go before we sleep. And this includes protecting the nation— men, women, children— from sexual predators such as the POTUS, Epstein, and the rest of that cabal.
Joyfully resist POTUS’ tyranny— it is our duty to our community and descendants.
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What a beautiful gift, the piano and your playing, Manuel!
So important to have traditions, to share ways of being. May we all find strength in ours for the work ahead of us.