By Shane Goodman shane@dmcityview.com

A stirring reminder

Hullihan’s story is truly a classic

My business partner Michael Gartner called me with an idea a few weeks ago. He doesn’t do this very often, but when he does, I take note. He offered the thought of publishing a Christmas story from a writer who worked for him during his days as editor at The Des Moines Register. The piece has become a local classic of sorts, and a few of our seasoned readers may recall it being published in The Register in the late ’70s and years later in The Tribune in Ames.

Bob Hullihan wrote the story of household creatures and the learning of the tradition to “not stir” on Christmas Eve. There are deeper meanings to the story, different morals for differing views. I never met Bob Hullihan, but I understand his life and death were quite tragic. Let this story be a reminder to all of us to enjoy the tradition of the holidays, to pass along knowledge, to be compassionate and to live life to its fullest each and every day.

I am glad that Michael suggested this story, and I am pleased to offer it to you during this joyous season.

Thanks for reading.

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