Happy Holidays

Yes, I started this post out that way because Christmas, or the holiday season to those that aren’t Christian, is for everyone. Almost all Americans celebrate it in one for or another. This is not a post exploring the real reason for the season in terms of religion. But I will default it calling the season Christmas, because that is my background. If you are Jewish, of African decent, or anything else, please just imagine your word for this season.

This year, my thoughts surround our changes in life as to what the holiday season means and brings to each of our lives. At least in my life it has been different as the year progresses, and I think that is true of a majority of others as well.

Children’s Christmas

I miss Christmas as a child. It is filled with magic and wonder. I remember telling stories of how I saw Santa one night. Seeing the cookies eaten, and the carrots gnawed (for the reindeer). Christmas was a time of songs and happiness. And presents.

I loved the presents like any child. Looking forward to what you were getting. It was exciting! Christmas day morning. This is where we get the expression “I was as excited as a kid on Christmas.” Did I care how much the presents were? Nope. I am not sure I knew even. I just knew that I would have other new worlds to explore and dream up.

Teenager’s Christmas

As I got older, Christmas started to lose some of its wonder. I was raised by a wonderful set of parents that explained Santa, who he really is and what he means in our lives. Christmas became more of a time of presents. Getting the things I wanted but could never afford on my own. I started going to church more and seeing the meaning that way, but it lost the magic. It was getting to be more of a reality than magical. I fell in love with singing Christmas Carols. Some of my favorite songs are carols, and it is such a joy to see the smiles on people’s faces when they listen to someone singing carols.

Adult’s Christmas

Now I am just getting into true adult hood, not yet 30, and no kids. But as I have gotten through my 20s, something has happened. The presents mean little anymore. There is very little I need or want anymore that isn’t something I think I need to save for myself. I think as you get older, your focus shifts to people other than yourself. Most people have families to focus on, and that is where they spend their time.

This is where I miss having kids around. I think adults, most at least, like having kids around at Christmas because it reminds them of the joy and magic of Christmas. How in one holiday season, we are all magically able to see the good in all people. We are generally nicer and more giving than any other point in the year. Not having children, I miss seeing people genuinely excited about opening presents.

My Point – True Beauty

I have found my other form of joy, which is gift giving. I have realized that this year I am more excited about gifts I am giving than receiving. While I don’t have children around just yet there is beauty and magic in Christmas.

Therefore, if you have families, take the joy in this holiday season and make a point of dwelling in it. If you do not, find your joy in others and what you can do to show them the beauty of the season. Ignore the diets. Forget the scale. Eat merrily the day of, enjoy what others have made in their own love. And remember that no matter what happens, there are things that are beautiful and should be celebrated this holiday season.

Happy Holidays!!