The Perfect Tree
By Stephanie Wonser
As the aroma of our beautiful, freshly cut Christmas tree fills the room, I close my eyes and brace myself for the task at hand: decorating the tree. We spend hours battling uncompromising strands of Christmas lights, but all the frustration fades away when we step back and admire the beauty of our tree. My mom stands precariously on the ladder, stretching to perfectly position the angel on the top of the tree. She asks my opinion and I nod, “Looks fine, Mom.” She continues to pull it this way and that, wanting it to look perfect. The tree itself is gorgeous, and its crisp scent embodies the very spirit of Christmas. With Christmas carols on the radio, my brothers and I rediscover our paper plate angels and clothespin Rudolph ornaments handcrafted back in grade school. I step back, watching my little brothers argue about whose ornament can go on which branch, and I smile. Just like every year before, this is the best Christmas tree we have ever had. Our tree is perfect because it embraces our imperfections, creating a unique beauty which unites our family in the spirit of Christmas and the presence of love.
