I absolutely LOVE this time of year. There is something about the chill in the air that makes you want to snuggle up with a steaming mug of hot cocoa in front of a beautifully lit Christmas tree in a dark room. Just the image conjures up a few meaningful memories for me. But, one of the things I have come to love the most about this time of year is the anticipation of Christmas. Not for what I will be getting, but for what I am giving.
Ryan and I went to the toy store tonight to get some Christmas shopping taken care of before the retail explosion next week. Even a week before Black Friday, the parking lots were packed and there was an almost tangible electricity in the air. As I walked through the store, I could see and hear the excitement of kids "auditioning" toys for the all important, yet somehow too few spots under the Christmas morning tree. Parents pusing shopping carts overflowing with boxes of gifts wandered through the store, hoping to find a good deal on just one more item from the carefully written letter to Santa.
I realize that there are plenty of things to despise about the Christmas season. Pushy shoppers, crowded stores, constant bell ringing, you name it--someone probably can't stand that part of Christmas. But, on the other had, what other season or celebration causes us to focus on other people as much as Christmas does? When else do we have that "holly, jolly" feeling that just won't go away? What other time of year do we so readily recognize that while we are very blessed, others have not been so fortunate? And, when else do we happily open our hearts and anything we can offer to share our blessings with others? It seems that while other events or activities throughout the year cause a simliar feeling here and there, Christmas really is the only time that we're all in it together. Take advantage of this Christmas feeling and be a little more charitable and a little more forgiving as you enjoy the electricity and excitement of such a wonderful season.
Isaac’s first football game of the year.
1 year ago
3 comments:
I too get the holly jolly feeling that won't go away. Good on ya for getting the shopping done before the mad rush. I love reading what you write. I should comment everytime I do but sometimes I just think about it and forget. Happy Sabbath
Amen! I too love this season! I am all over the giving and how much fun it is to see my kids faces when they open the gift they didn't expect! That's fun!
Have you ever written for a newspaper or magazine? Your posts are like reading a well written article or something. It's fascinating!
I've never been a huge fan of Christmas because I hate the craziness associated with the season. But this year I am really excited about it. We already have our tree up and most of our decorations. I can't wait!
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