My Thoughts at Christmastime
This has been a new experience, being away from my home and country at Christmas. It has given me a lot of time to reflect, as I had no shopping to do, no dinner to plan, no decorations to put up. I have been observing and participating in many activities here. I have been in a Medieval Lantern Procession, attended a Dickensien Christmas Festival, sung in the Carol Service, eaten mince pie and more activities are yet to come. I have also been reminiscing about Christmases past. I have found that the overall concept is the same, it is only in the details that our countries differ.
No one has offered me wassail here, only tea or coffee. I thought wassail was an English thing. There is a lot of special baking going on, it is just different. Even here most people seem to be having turkey for Christmas dinner. There has been shopping, but it doesn�t seem to be so frantic as in America. I see more smiles and less frowns. There are decorations, but not nearly as elaborate as I am accustomed to. Somehow the American way seems overblown by comparison. Has it become too gaudy, too loud, too commercial?
There seems to be more public religious observance here. Even though fewer people here even claim to go to church, they appear to grasp the concept that this is a religious holiday�a holy day. It is also a time for family.
I have mused as to what it is about Christmas that makes it so universally enjoyed. Why do people everywhere give gifts at this time? Why do we want family around us? Why is this the one time when we feel that no one should be alone? I think I have it figured out. It is not the trees or the tinsel. Not the packages nor puddings. Neither sleigh bells nor Santa Claus. It is all about love.
At no other time are we as apt to really think about those we love. Especially at this time do we want to show how much we care in a tangible way. We want to share and give until it hurts. We just want to give because we love Charities know that this is the most advantageous time to solicit funds. Retailers can sell us anything. Our hearts and our pockets are open. But why? Is it just customary or expected?
I don�t think so. I think that down deep we know that love is the reason for the season. That is how it all began. God loved the whole world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that any and all persons who would accept this perfect gift would be given eternal life. It started with a love gift in a family, and it was celebrated then, with bright lights and music and much joy.
So my wish for you this season is that you receive the promise of that first Christmas night�Peace on earth and goodwill toward all mankind. Remember that it is all about love. As you gather with friends and family around you, don�t forget to say "I love you" to each of them and especially to God. And while you are at it, be lovable.
May you have a joyous time this season. I love you each and all. Merry Christmas!
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