By Rich Diefenbach
December 21, 2007
So much is written about the need to help our children find the “true spirit” of Christmas.
But the thousands of TV ads targeting our kids only underscore the commercialism of the holiday. Any effort to counter this trend seems hopeless. Even our favorite Rankin-Bass holiday specials, like “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman,” play into the commercial theme of toys, more toys and even more toys. My expectations for helping my son understand the true meaning and spirit of Christmas, have been low.
But I was pleasantly surprised by the impact of the film “The Little Drummer Boy” on my three year old. It was difficult for my son to comprehend the tragic death of the little drummer boy’s parents by thieves, his kidnapping and subsequent enslavement. Forced to work as a minstrel, he plays his drum and bitterly sings for the taunting crowds. All this resentment has given him a frown that can only be altered slightly by a painted on smile. He voices his hate for people, yelling back at the crowds.
Later, when his friend, a little lamb, is run over by a gladiator, he must seek medical help for it.. He approaches the Three Wise Kings, following the north star, carrying gifts to give the son of God. One king tells the boy the lamb may not live, and he must pray to the greatest of all Kings, the newborn babe, Jesus Christ. The young boy says he has “no gift to bring” to the child. Then he realizes that playing his best for the child on his drum is his greatest gift. The little drummer boy’s tears stream down his face as he plays – pa rump a pumm pumm, me and my drum.
My son Michael got very emotional and teared up as he watched the drummer boy play. Later, when we set the creche out, he asked, “Where’s the little drummer boy?” This simple, wonderful tale of humility touched my child deeply.
Children’s honesty and hope, an inspiration for the season
A few weeks ago, we were in a church in Chatham, Massachusetts. The pastor was handing out Christmas gifts from the Catholic Christian Doctrine classes to the children. The gifts were small standing plaques of the first family: Mary, Joseph and Jesus. The pastor called out, “If there are any children out there who would like this gift please come forward.” Michael said, “I’m a child and I want one.” He slowly walked up the aisle with the other kids, placing his two hands together as if to pray. He graciously thanked the priest. The gift was meant to serve as a symbol to the children of the true meaning of Christmas.
Just the other day I took Michael to see the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. It was my first time, too. While there was a lot of Santa in it, as well as toys, the climax was the Nativity scene. Real camels, real sheep, real people. The star shined so bright. Michael knew what it all meant. My heart was full again when he asked me, “Where’s the little drummer boy?” No wonder Jesus loved the children. Their honesty and hope always inspires us, especially at Christmas.
Rich Diefenbach, his wife Laura and son Michael have lived in Chappaqua for 11 years. Rich manages a broadcast content development firm, serves as vice president of the Parish Council at St. John and St. Mary’s Church, and is a member of the board of NCCTV.
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