The holiday season is upon us, and with that, we can already feel that good, old Christmas cheer in the air. But do we really know what Christmas is all about? Have we perhaps lost our way and think of it as paid vacation filled with presents and food?
It’s time to remind ourselves why Christmas truly matters and to see what we can do differently this year to make it as meaningful as possible.
Isn’t Christmas a Holiday that Marks the Birth of Jesus?
Of course, in its very essence, Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ. It holds great importance in many countries and is a major holiday celebrated all over the world. However, we have to take into account that even non-religious people celebrate Christmas. Why do they hold Christmas in such high regard then?
Despite its religious background, Christmas is predominantly a holiday that has been commercialized time and time again. Movies and songs have used it as an inspiration in more ways than one, and it has led to the creation of quite a few clothing lines as well. What’s more, most people associate Christmas with bright lights, food, and a sparkly tree in the middle of the room — that is the 21st-century Christmas spirit.
Nevertheless, that’s not what Christmas is all about. If we exclude Jesus and gingerbread cookies from the equation, Christmas is about spending time with our family, as well as sharing and giving without expecting anything in return.
What Christmas Is (Also) About
Family
Blood is not water, and that’s especially true when it’s Christmas. Therefore, this year, we ought to try to remember that we should forgive and forget. If a family member has done something wrong and hurt us in the process, we should try to understand why. Perhaps they were struggling and needed our help? Maybe we could have prevented it all if we had paid more attention?
Whatever it may be, we ought to eliminate bad blood on Christmas and spend it with our family. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, yes — but also aware that without family, loneliness is not far-off.
Friends
Some of us may not have a family to rely on, and that’s OK; our friends can always be our family. Therefore, at Christmas, we should strive to spend quality time with our best buddies.
We can share a meal, help others in need, or stay in and watch holiday movies all day long. It doesn’t really matter, as long as we’re taking in the Christmas spirit together and living the harmony Christmas has brought upon us.
Giving Back
Finally, we have to remember to follow in Jesus’ footsteps this Christmas. Even if someone doesn’t have a religious background, there’s no harm in giving back by sharing food, love, and support with others. In the end, Christmas is a reminder that miracles do happen and that there is some good left in this world — we just have to look for it.
So, the next time you wonder what Christmas is all about, remember that it revolves around family the most. However, we shouldn’t forget to share the joy with others and give back whenever we can. That is what Jesus would be doing as well — and there’s no better way to celebrate Christmas than by using him as an example, even if we aren’t religious at all!
