Thoughts about Christmas

Thoughts About Christmas

Soon it will be Christmas.  Exactly what does that mean?

One thing it means is hope.  Hope for peace in a world that has never ceasing conflict.  When we think about conflict, we often think of nations fighting against one another.  We think about people being displaced.  We think about suffering and anguish.  Yet, conflict is often part of our everyday lives.

Conflict is magnified at Christmas.  At the time when we should be the most hopeful, there is often a sense of loss.  Of things not being quite right.  That someone we should enjoy does not feel the same.  That a relationship has suffered damage.  It doesn't matter what  caused the conflict.  What matters is not losing hope that things can be made right.  Hope keeps us moving toward better times.  Better relationships.  Deeper understanding.

Another meaning is love.  Not the mushy type but real love.  Love that sees need and moves to help.  It is an action.  A way of living that brings people together.  It sees good in others.  It doesn't hold on to bad feelings but replaces them with positive thoughts.  It opens itself up to others and welcomes everyone.

Then there is the word welcome.  Welcome suggests  warmth.  It is easy to understand that word.  We all have experienced a welcoming spirit.  We love to be in its presence.  We are reluctant to leave.  We know within our spirits that this person truly cares for us.  We know that we can return as often as we want, and that spirit will always welcome us.

What about acceptance?  Does Christmas suggest that word?  If it doesn't, it should.  What is gained from pushing others away?  What does that say about our own spirit?  Sure, we all have warts.  We all have behaviors that push other's buttons.  It is a two way street, right?  So, how do we move toward acceptance when we simply don't want to let go of our own  anger or frustration?  How do we embrace others with honesty and care?

And then there is peace.  When I think of that word, I think of quiet.  I think of calm.  I think of beauty. Peace can come when we least expect it.  In the midst of hurt, it is possible to find that place of peace that gets us through.  It sustains us.  It wraps us in arms of gentleness and encourages us.  It washes over our wounded spirit and reassures us that we are not alone.

Let's not forget sharing.  Lucky are those who have friends and family to share this time with.   In the hustle and bustle of going at full speed, it is easy to forget about those who are lonely.  Those who would give anything to have someone to share the holiday with.  It is easy to forget to look outside ourselves.  Yet, that is exactly what Christmas is about.   Seeing outside ourselves.

Yes, the list of words that describe Christmas is endless.  It is bright lights and lighted trees.  It is decorated homes and sometimes reindeer antlers on cars.  It is shopping for the right gift for a special person.  It is sending greetings to others.  It is parties and food and packages.  It is secrets that others try to locate.  It is giving.  It is time spent over coffee with new friends who might be experiencing life away from loved ones for the first time.  It is all of this and so much more.

It is about a child who was born to bring all of this and more into the world.  A child who grew into a man who cared about others.  Who spoke about peace.  Who left no one out.  Who accepted all.  Who shared stories and parables about how to bring this world into its true fullness.  Who taught us that loving others, understanding others, working through conflicts is possible.  Who showed us by example how to  open ourselves to others.  Who placed hope within us.  Hope for a peaceful world-both far away and in our own homes and families.

In the midst of this season I am sure each of us will examine our own lives and make new decisions about who we want to be.  The wonderful thing about this is we get to start over every day.  We get to show peace and love.  We get to welcome others into our circle of friends.  We get a do-over.  I love that.  I need those opportunities to make life better.  I need more chances to let others know how precious they are to me.  I need more time.  I hope I have it.

And I hope you have the same opportunities to examine your own life.  When each of us work to make life better for all, we will have achieved the true meaning of Christmas.