The Meaning Of Christmas To Me

I have been pondering all the Christmas issues that seem to be flying around blogland. Mainly I have been pondering the issue of Christmas in my own life and I really feel as though I have much to say on this but I will sum up just a little for you.
Since having our son the meaning of gifts and giving at Christmas has changed. Though the thought behind the giving is wonderful and appreciated, I really do not want the focus to be on the gift giving. The reason for this season is Jesus. Though that saying has been coined for this time of year it is so very, very true. As I continue to grow in my walk I have realize my perspective on so much has been skewed. Christmas is to be a time of rejoicing in the birth of God's only son in whom He sent to save us. I believe we, as a society (believers and non-believers alike) have lost sight of the ultimate gift that has already been given. How could any gift here on earth compare that gift which God himself already gave? Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the gifts that are given to me and I consider myself a big giver, that is when I can. But I don't want anyone going beyond their means to give to me what they have already given; their love, friendship, family bonds, etc... I wish that I could give more to my friends and family this year, but to be quite frank, it is not possible to do all that I want to. We all experience heartache and the up's and down's of life. For this reason as well, I don't want to focus on the giving. I don't want to have to explain to my son, if there a time where we can not give, why it is that we've given so much before but can not now. I want him to know the real reason we celebrate is Jesus' birth and that any gifts that we give and receive are added blessing to what God has already done for us. I can honestly say to you as I sit here tonight, as sure as the air is cold in my room, that it truly would not bother me if I never received another gift again. I use to think my sister was crazy for not doing much gift giving at Christmas. But, you know what? I think she has been the one who has had it right all along. We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of getting the gifts and wrapping them, going here and going there to find that perfect gift. But what happens once all the wrapping is thrown away and the gifts are already opened? Life will continue just the same as it did the day before. I apologize if this seems preachy because it's not my intentions to pass my convictions off on any of you who read this. By all means, this is just my take on the holidays. I have not always felt this way. But I have experienced enough in the past few months to know that there is so much more to the meaning of Christmas. I am thankful for my husband and son and I look forward to getting up Christmas morning and enjoying each others company. What gifts we are able to give this year will be enjoyed but not nearly as much as each other. I am grateful that I have great friends and family that we will also enjoy the company of. I love you all so very much and am thankful to have you apart of my life. I want you to know that the best gift anyone of you could give to me is your love and friendship, I mean this with all sincerity.

Merry Christmas Everyone!