Don’t Wake the Baby

I love Christmas music. Almost as much as I love patriotic music. But, not ALL Christmas music, usually just the traditional stuff. I do however, like traditional songs played in non-traditional ways. But one song has always sort of made me snicker: The Little Drummer Boy.

I mean, let’s face it, Mary had to be exhausted from all that travel, the stress of having no place to give birth, giving birth surrounded by farm animals, having royalty visit when you look and feel your worst, up all night with a crying baby, and then, on top of everything else, who shows up? This damn kid with a drum.

Seriously, you want to beat on that thing now? When I just got my baby to sleep and there is finally some peace and quiet in this manger? Any new mother can totally relate to this I’m sure. Stop with the racket already. I don’t care how cute this little boy is, I most definitely do not want him playing his drum for him. Pa rum pa pum pum.

Now, before you get your panties in a wad, I know the symbolism and I totally appreciate the song. I just can’t help but smile every time I hear it.

And, I can relate to the kid, too. I don’t always have gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to give either. I mean, who can afford myrrh these days? And, if I’m lucky enough to have a drum, I’m gonna beat on that thing.

But the point is, it’s okay to give only what you can. This little boy had nothing but a drum. How or where he got it is a mystery, but by golly he had one. That’s it. One measly drum. And, he apparently knew how to play it. Or so we all assume from the song. So, he got himself over to the manger and offered what he was able to offer, a drum solo.

I know this is tongue in cheek, but you all know the importance of this very special holiday for Christians around the world. It’s not about the commercialism or the giving of expensive gifts. The gifts are symbolic of what occurred at the birth of Christ and that’s why it’s a tradition today. But, please remember to give and receive gifts with an open mind and heart. The gold, frankincense, and myrrh from one person are just as precious as music played from the heart of someone else. It’s not the gift, it’s the thought and effort that went into the giving of it. And remember, when the little boy finished his drumming, what happened? Jesus smiled. Don’t forget to smile my friends. Smile at the giver of the gift.

In fact, gifts aren’t really necessary at all so don’t put so much pressure on yourself to always have to give a gift. If you can’t afford a gift, give what you’ve got. Spend some time with people. Sings some songs. Cook them a meal or bake them some cookies. Play a game together. Play your drum if you have one. Just don’t wake the baby. Trust me on that.

In honor of that little drummer boy and his message to the world, I’ve included one of my favorite videos of this timeless song performed by the outstanding King and Country. Please enjoy.

Do you guys sometimes feel pressured into giving the perfect gift? Do you try to always buy gifts or do you sometimes give homemade things? What is the most precious, non-gift gift you’ve ever received? Please share.

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Word of the Day: Rhachis

Fun fact about me: I think I’d be a good drummer.

Original post by Jansen Schmidt, December 2022. Images by Google and giphy.com. Video courtesy YouTube  (for King and Country)