Mae Carol Sails’ “CHRISTmas cross” is a sign of what the Christmas season means to her. (Photo by Anthony Richards)

For Mae Carol Sails the meaning of the Christmas season is crystal clear and something that she has never forgotten.

Instead of putting up a traditional wreath on the door, Sails was looking to do something special that would also convey the religious aspects associated with the holiday.

The result was what Sails calls her “CHRISTmas cross,” which stands on the front stoop of her home in Brentwood Estates on County Road 70 in Thorsby.

“He is the light of the world and he lives in me,” Sails said.

She used a wooden cross with a base that is traditionally used during Easter and wrapped it with about five packs of lighted garland.

“The lord just came to me one day with the idea when I was at work,” Sails said. “I had been thinking about doing something like this for a while.”

The cross is a visible sight from the road both during the day and at night, as it glimmers in the white lights of the garland at night.

It has gained popularity and according to Sails, she has received quite a few positive remarks and interest from neighbors, family members and churchgoers on Facebook.

“It is important to remember the true meaning and to remember why it is that we celebrate,” Sails said. “I hope this can inspire others.”