Good morning, everyone and happy holiday season!
I struggled trying to come up with something to write for my blog this week; of course, I wanted it to be Christmas related, but I didn't want it to be about external things so much--like shopping, decorations, holiday traditions, etc... I want to talk today about something deeper. I want to talk about why we need Christmas. Why is Christmas so special to us; what is the meaning underneath all the ribbons and bows, the running around and getting things ready. the anticipation of it all.
I think we can often get distracted from the true meaning of Christmas by the commercialism and the need to please and make everything perfect for others. But the real joy of Christmas, I believe, comes from the anticipation of things to come. The anticipation of seeing those we love, of spending time with them, of taking a break from the mundane everyday parts of our lives that we often spend in survival mode and take the time to breathe life into acting for others, spending time with others, and taking care of each other. We can skip the fluff and tie the meaning into one pretty package we call LOVE. I believe love is at the center of it all, and that among the everyday distractions that come from living in a consumer-driven world, I believe what we all want and need in this life can't be bought: what we all need and want is LOVE.
I was raised in a catholic household, where I was told the story of Christmas centered around Jesus, and if you're Christian you are also told a similar story about Jesus coming down to earth to save us from our sins; but I believe Christmas doesn't just speak to Catholics and Christians, I believe it speaks to all people about the need for love in our lives. God is love and love is the most precious thing, meant to be shared with others. It cannot be replaced by external things, by glowing screens, or robots or data.
With this need to celebrate and share love, Christmas also brings back the magic of childhood, of hopes and dreams yet unfulfilled; the anticipation of Christmas is the most joyful part about this time of year. The hope of a bright future and finding joy in the simple things in life, while finding a respite from the hard things, the things that often plague us as adults. Going back to a place of childhood joy, laughter and love is what Christmas is all about.
"The world is no longer a romantic place, some of its people still are, however, and therein lies the promise. Don't let the world win."
Who do you enjoy spending the holidays with and why?
What does Christmas mean to you... Share your story!
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