Thanksgiving has come and gone, and we are rapidly approaching Christmas. I find that my thankfulness has not decreased. In fact, I think it has increased tenfold. I am very fortunate. I have so many people I love and care about and who love and care about me. I have a job. I have a place to live that's warm. I have a car, food, clothes to wear, have traveled this year to places I never expected to go, and so many more incredible things. I want for nothing.
In counting my blessings, I think of those who do not have even a portion of what I have. I make an extra effort this time of year to give to charity. Remember, it is not about the size of the gift. Whatever you have to share, whether it be monetary, or gently used clothing, or household things that you won't use, or non perishable food items, or even time - it can make someone's whole Christmas.
If you have ever participated in a toy drive, and seen the look on a child's face when they receive a toy, you know what I am talking about. It may be the only toy they get this year, and the child is thrilled. The parent of that child is also happy. Sometimes it may even move them to tears. And what do you get? You get the sheer unequivocal joy of knowing that you made a difference. You made that family's Christmas. Does it get any better than that?
To me, Christmas is magical. It always has been, and it always will be. Santa is not just for the smaller set. If you believe, wondrous things are all around us. It's a season of love, of giving. Christmas is the time to let the best of yourself shine. Some people are all about what they are going to get. I find that my favorite part of Christmas is not what I receive. My favorite thing is what I give. When I find that perfect gift, that, in itself, is the reward. I have that desire to have the recipient open it, and think, wow, she really gets me. When you shift your focus in that manner, the holidays become so much more.
Down to 15 days until Christmas. Give where you can. Help those in need. Spend time with the people you love. That's what true Christmas magic is all about.
That, and words from a classic:
Charlie Brown: Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?
Linus: Sure Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about. Lights please.
And there were in the same country shepherds, abiding in the field,
keeping watch over their flocks by night. And , lo, the angel of the
Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round
about them. And they were sore afraid, and the angel said unto
them, "Fear not, for behold I bring you tidings of great joy, which
shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of
David, a savior, tis Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto
you. You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in
a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of
the heavenly hosts, praising God and saying , " Glory to God in the
highest, and on Earth, peace, and good will toward men."
That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
Until we meet again, my friends-
Angie
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