As we begin the season of Advent, images of light emerging
out of the darkness are all around us—Advent wreaths, candles, and of course, the
warm glow of Christmas lights – sometimes lots of Christmas lights!
Last night, along with a crowd of family and friends, I had
the privilege of witnessing the “big reveal” at 36 Hancock Court in South
Setauket on Long Island. Kevin Liguori, my great-nephew, had orchestrated an
amazing Christmas music and light show in the same tradition as his dad, Mike.
This year Kevin took charge of the lights as his dad fights brain cancer. With
his light and music show running every night through New Year’s, Kevin plans to
raise money for the Brain Tumor Foundation and Cancer Care Center at New York
University where his dad is being treated.
In a true community effort, Kevin was assisted first and
foremost by director dad Mike, his grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and of
course, his beautiful mom Christine and sister Jillian. In a touching tribute,
Kevin eloquently dedicated this lighting to his dad and all who have brain
cancer, then acknowledged and thanked all who helped, even Paul DeFina who
shared some of the decorative “treasures” from his garage.
As the lights blazed and the jingle bells rocked, the blaring
sound of sirens grew louder and louder. Down the dark street Santa emerged, not
drawn by eight tiny reindeer but six towering red fire trucks. The reveal was
complete! (And my sisters and I even got our picture taken with Santa Claus for
the first time in a “few” years …decades even.)
Out of the darkness of winter comes the anticipation of
Advent and the joy of Christmas. Out of the darkness of cancer comes the gifts
of a caring young man and the family and friends that support his dad.
Christmas lights and Christmas tunes have taken on a whole new meaning for me
this year. Thank you, Kevin.
May we all join together in prayer for Mike, for his family,
and for all of the families fighting cancer this Advent season.
Blessings!
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