December 24, 2009 | 5:06 pm

Silent Night

Posted by Mihal Levy

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It is the day of the eve of…you know. 

I can’t believe it is already that time of year.  Where did 2009 go?  And where was I the whole time it was passing me by?

The busy shopping, Hallmark-driven town stops for one night a year.  Three hundred and sixty four days of madness and one day of silence.  Traffic stops after everyone has made their way to the malls for last minute gifts, Trader Joes for cheap floral arrangements and other grocery stores for last minute items for dinner.  After everyone has made it to their respective homes or family members’ homes, all is calm, all is bright.

That is when I just want to head out and drive on a traffic-less road.  I don’t know where I would go, but just the thought that I could get there in no time is appealing. 

The next day we have plans, of course.  A matinee of Alvin and The Chipmunks (at my son’s request) and dinner out at an open establishment.  Kosher deli?

Although I am not a big fan of stillness and enjoy the hustle and bustle of a busy city (not a busy mall), it is nice to see the town slow down for twenty four hours.  Whether you and your family are enjoying a matinee and Chinese food, or if you do celebrate X-mas, it is time out of the daily grind.  An enforced time out…which is often needed.

When I was younger, it was just another day.  As I got older, it was time away from it all.  So, whatever your plans are and however you are spending your day, enjoy.

If you are celebrating, then have a merry celebration.  If you are like me, then see you at the movies!