It’s Almost Christmas

We all face the same thing around the holidays. The hustle and bustle of shopping. The hours of headaches from planning. You are not alone in this! How about this year, you do something a little different? Christmas is a special time. A time of giving freely of your heart, not of what great new item is in stock. People need to slow down, and try to focus on Christmas as a loving holiday. After all, that’s how it came to be, from perfect, unconditional love.

Gather your family in what we call an open forum. This is a family meeting where no one gets left out on the decisions. No one is told to hush, because the floor is open to all. Even the youngest. Talk to each other and ask if there are any ideas for a new way to celebrate.

Offer to give to a local charity. There are so many families that need our unconditional love all the time, but especially during the holidays. How about volunteering at a local shelter for a day? You can’t imagine how you’ll feel once you’ve made some one less fortunate smile. This will teach your children the importance of loving everyone, even if they are different.

Here’s an old favorite: Caroling! Do you have a local nursing home or maybe hospital your family carolers could visit? Don’t forget the people living in these places. They would like to have their spirits lifted, too. And in hospitals, they need it most. Even the staff will feel better after they hear some wonderful carols and hymns.

Instead of giving gifts to your friends, maybe you can make them a special dinner? And if you can plan it a few days or so after Christmas, you can be sure they can attend! Nothing says love like taking the time and effort to make a home made gift, and nothing is more home made than food! Use left over Christmas cards for invitations, too. Just clip the front of the card off, and write the details on the back of it, kind of like a postcard, and hand them out, or mail them! Beautiful invitations, that have been recycled!

Christmas is not about what you can purchase for some one. At least, it wasn’t meant to be. Giving from the heart is the meaning behind this joyous holiday. By all means, let the little ones enjoy Santa Claus, because one day, they will grow up. But try to bring in the true meaning of Christmas this year. Let it lift your spirits and fill you hearts. You’ll be surprised how good you’ll feel!