There is an aura surrounding this Christmas season like a halo around the moon before a storm.

The emanation is clearly visible. You can see it in people’s eyes, misted with tears they try to blink away as they go through the motions of making merry while sighing from heavy hearts.

We all feel it, this emotional taffy pull that stretches us from joy to sadness, from hope to anxiety.

This is a holiday season like none other. One minute we’re caroling and garlanding doorways, the next we’re silently thinking of families with sons and daughters in Afghanistan. In one breath we send cards wishing happy New Year, then we hold our breath when remembering those who did not live to greet this special season.

We hang wreaths for decorations, but we don’t take down our American flags. Many of the wreaths are decorated with red, white and blue streamers. Others have tiny flags protruding from the evergreen circles.

A house in a nearby town is outlined with hundreds of festive lights. There are Santas, snowmen, reindeer and a creche in the front yard, but the centerpiece of the display boasts brilliantly lit Stars and Stripes.

Everywhere we look are reminders of the season, but everywhere we look are reminders of the times.

The very first card we received this year is a painting of a lighthouse, a star, and a proud flag flying from the tall pole. “Peace and light,” expressed the artist in his special message, and “God bless America.” We will treasure this card from William C. Holden.

Another card is a watercolor painting of the artist’s welcoming front door at her home in a neighboring coastal community. Inside the card is a poem written by Bobbie Strohmeyer, which, with her permission, we gladly share:

“Welcome to the warmth within

as Christmas now approaches

the fire glows, the tree is trimmed

the sea sometimes encroaches

with saucy waves and roaring sound

while eiders ride the crests

and snow is often falling softly

deepening our steps.

Time stands still as thoughts transcend

the fear we now contest

the tranquil peace we used to know

becomes a fragile guest.

Perhaps the strength of memories

of family round the tree

of gifts wrapped brightly beckoning

with love from all to thee

will somehow light the future path

we now must take together

joined beneath the flag we trust

so peace may reign forever.”