Fantasia

Along time ago (okay, in the ‘80s), when Disney released their film Fantasia on video, I had an Aunt who was in the habit of purchasing Disney videos for us for Christmas. Usually, she needed no counsel on her yearly selection, but that year she called to ask my Mom’s advice. She didn’t think we’d like Fantasia. I begged Mom to convince her otherwise – I wanted to see it, even as a young kid – and she ended up giving in. She did hedge her bets however, purchasing another animated movie for my younger sister, in the hopes, I suppose, of assuring that even when I found out I hated Fantasia that year’s Christmas gift from her wouldn’t be a total bust. However, I ended up loving the movie. I still do.

Now fast forward to a few years ago. Alexander and I were a starving student and spouse respectively with a little boy and another on the way. We were in no financial situation to have a “very” merry Christmas. A most, we were anticipating a “happy” Christmas. That year Alexander attached a note to every present he gave me. The presents themselves were not big (or expensive). But knowing the thought that went into his selection of each gift made them priceless.

I am reminded of this because the other day (fast forwarding again), Lij dragged our DVD of Fantasia 2000 out of the cupboard and wanted to watch it. As I opened the case to remove the disc a note fluttered out onto the floor. On it was printed:

To Jessica, So that you and our boys can share in a sense of wonder.

You see, those notes that Christmas meant so much to me that I saved each one inside its respective gift. Fantasia 2000 (purchased used off eBay for something like $1) was one of those gifts. Now every time Lij asks to watch it, I’m reminded of that very special Christmas. We didn’t have much to give each other that year. But Alexander gave me the best gifts he could have – a little window into his head and his heart.

And despite my Aunt’s concerns, I do indeed watch both Fantasia movies. And I still love them. And so do my boys. Maybe it’s that “sense of wonder” that we’re able to share.