The Christmas Orange

Jake was a resident of an orphan’s home, one of ten children supported by what contributions the home could secure on a continuous struggle. There was very little to eat, but at Christmas there always seemed to be a little more than usual to eat, and the home seemed a little warmer. It was a time for more than usual enjoyment, but more than this, there was the orange. At Christmas time, each child received an orange; the only time of year that such a rare item was provided… and it was coveted by each child like no other thing they ever possessed. They would save it for several days, admiring it, feeling it, loving it, and contemplating the moment when they would eat it. Truly, it was a “piece de resistance” to the Christmas tide, and the year, for many would wait until New Year’s Day or later to eat it.