Christmas Moments

Christmas Moments--

I am taking a few minutes for myself before some of my friends come over.  It has been a busy weekend for everyone.  It will be good to sit and chill with a glass of wine or cup of cider and reflect on the meaning of this season.

Yes, it is too commercial.  Yes, people run themselves ragged to prepare for what was intended as a simple celebration.  And yes, people will remark about how wonderful it all was.

In the rush it is so easy to think we have to be something different from what we are all the other days of the year.  We feel pressured from all fronts.  Put up the tree, make sure the baking is done, the gifts purchased, attend the school programs, be mindful of the budget.  Not one thing  on that list is bad.  Trees give our homes such a glow.  Cookies smell so good, and children love to decorate them.  Finding the right gift for that special someone is a joy.  School programs are just simply fun.  Especially the one student who waves and turns around multiple times during the performance or sits down.  The budget?  Who remembers that!

While we all enjoy the multitude of activities during the Christmas season, it is also meaningful to sit for a moment and reflect on the season.  It really isn't about a baby in a manger.  It is about the life he lived. The example he set for all of us.  It is about finding the time to help others.  It is all about making sure no one is hungry.  It is about showing love--not the kind we see when some lucky woman opens a small box and discovers a beautiful gift. (That never is a bad thing!)  No, it is about the love that sees the need.  It is about the love that refuses to accept that injustice is ever ok.

And now I am going to sit quietly.  Soon my friends will arrive.  I can hardly wait!