No Christmas can compare to a "Bermudaful" Christmas. This is the time of year when all Bermudians, young and old, come together as one community. Throughout the twenty one square miles of our gorgeous island, homes are filled with the aroma of apple cider, cassava and farine pie. There is an extra stream of light reflecting from houses, from the blinking Christmas lights placed on the Christmas tree.

Streets are lined with a colorful array of Christmas lights and decorations, and rusty voice boxes are oiled for the singing of Christmas carols. Youngsters all over the island write their wish lists, and send them to Santa at the North Pole. Just days before Christmas, they sit anxiously in front of the television set, waiting to hear their letters read.

Even though Hamilton is hustling and bustling with last- minute shoppers, the spirit of giving takes over. Charities throughout the island become overwhelmed with non-perishable goods for those less fortunate.

Personal items, toys, clothes, and cans of food are distributed to unfortunate families, making this Christmas a memorable one.

The Christmas season is the time for family. Parents and children alike, spend quality time decorating their Christmas tree together. The tree that was picked out weeks in advance, and purchased before anyone else had the chance to eye it up. The cookies and milk are prepared for Santa's visit on Christmas Eve night.

The youngest children try their hardest to stay up late to prove to their older siblings that Santa Claus is real; but fall asleep eventually. Of course, all rise early on Christmas morning to see what gifts they had received. New clothing, toy motorbikes, Barbie dolls, and numerous other gifts are ripped open. The look on the children's faces is priceless when they discover that Santa had fulfilled their requests.

Loved ones voyage from house to house, visiting those whom they haven't seen all year. The good table linens are ironed and placed neatly on dining room tables, and the china is washed off for the enormous Christmas feast ahead. The turkey and ham are carved into serving sizes. The stuffing, macaroni and cheese, fresh vegetables, and rolls are neatly aligned on the serving table; waiting for the hungry takers. Wine bottles are popped, and there is sparkling grape juice for the minors. Grandparents look amongst their children and grandchildren, cherishing Grandparents look amongst their children and grandchildren, cherishingthe moments as though it may be the last family gathering. Candy canes, hugs, kisses and Christmas cards are exchanged over the commotion of celebration. Little children look on in amazement as the older family members exchange memories of past Bermuda Christmases.

For many Bermudians, Christmas is not entirely about opening presents on Christmas Day, and partaking in a feast fit for an army of men. It's about taking time to remember who Christmas is about.

Many persons use Christmas to reflect on Jesus Christ, as he is the sole reason for the holiday celebrations. Churches are open to those who would like to learn more about Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. However, many just go to pray, and participate in church celebrations.

At the end of all the food preparation, decorating, the opening of presents, and celebration, there is a sense of peace within the island. Everyone returns home, and doors are closed until the next morning. Children are tucked into bed, and parents stay up recalling all that happened. The only light we can see are the blinking lights from the Christmas tree.

In the peaceful island of Bermuda, the Christmas celebrations are over, but not forgotten; until the next year. No Christmas can compare to a "Bermudaful" Christmas. This is the time when lifetime memories are made.