Christmas eve. The family has gathered a bit reluctantly (there is always someone who complains about the reunion place, the invitees, the menu, etc.). Some grumpy faces, some smiling faces, some not so happy to see you faces and some what am I doing here faces. The kids are over excited. They're the only happy ones.
Loud conversations. Intrusive questions and comments while everyone is waiting. The kids are waiting for Santa Claus, I was waiting for the apocalypse. "Oh dear Lord, come and save me now," I secretly pray as I finish my third glass of wine. "Drink, breathe and be merry," I reminded myself.
It didn't take long for my prayers to be heard as the bell started ringing. Santa's here. The kids gathered around him with astonishment. They wanted the gifts. I wanted salvation.
The room quickly turned into an "escape the room" situation though much less fun. Toys, gift wraps and kids were all over the floor. A real minefield. One uncalculated step and you risk to step on a lego block or a child's limb.
But then in the midst of the chaos, my nephew suddenly bursted into tears and I rushed to the rescue.
- What's wrong? I said before I realize he was almost covered with gifts. "Wooow, are all these yours?"
He nodded in approval and in between sobs he said: "I asked Santa to bring me a big Lego, but he didn't. I have been good, I have been good," he repeated in desolation.
As I searched the pile of toys, I finally found the Lego he was referring to. The box wasn't as big as he expected it to be but it was the toy that he exactly wanted.
A smile curled upon his lips as he realized that his efforts to be good this year finally paid off.
I looked at him half relieved half amused and said: "there is a lesson you should learn tonight. Size doesn't matter (well it does in certain cases but not when it comes to gifts) but it isn't how big the gift is. Sometimes, smaller and unexpected gestures can make you happier than receiving all the Lego blocks in the world."
Of course my comment fell on deaf ears: he went back to his toys and I went back looking for what I cherished most on such nights: my glass of wine.