This is one of my favorite Christmas stories. But then, sometimes I just like to tug on the heartstrings as a storyteller, and this is one of the best for just that purpose.

Tug at the heartstrings?

How about yanking on them, and tying them in knots?

Even better.

And this is one of the stories that really MUST be read aloud to get anywhere near the full emotional impact. I haven't heard it told in some time; thank you for this moment.

No problem. I did alter it a bit. Made it Christmas Eve rather than New Year's Eve, and cut out the part where the roast turkey gets up and walks on the table....that was just creepy.

I happened to be going through my favorites tonight when I found this seasonally appropriate piece again, and once more I thank you for this.

I originally read this story in a Reader's Digest collection of world folk stories. And a few years ago I was listening to NPR on a lonely winter's night when Ken Nordine's Word Jazz read it aloud to me again, and I was reminded of the tragic beauty of the tale.

It's a sad tale that's just... too beautiful in its tragedy to ruin with a happy ending, like the intricate sand mandala that must be swept away lest it be made permanent and break the whole intention of its making.

Thank you. I've been meaning to re-record this for a while, now that I have a decent microphone. Thank you for reminding me.

I would do my heart a disservice if I didn't tell you that you touched my heart. Thank you, max.

That is exactly what it is supposed to do.

oh man, that made me tear up, very touching.

Ouch. <3 Beautiful, but ouch does that strike a chord!

;;~;;

I told ya...

you are evil! oh my god it was so beautiful and sad