In a recent e-mail message to a friend if mine, I found myself writing these words--- I wish I could look forward to Christmas a little bit more. Now, granted, I was discussing the impending visit from my in-laws at the time. But that impulsive musing made me stop and think.
One Sunday morning a few years ago at about this time of year, as my husband and I were walking into our church, we passed the head pastor. He smiled and greeted uswith a hearty Merry Christmas, shaking our hands. As he did so, he looked at me and asked, "Are you getting what you want for Christmas?" I'm sure he probably meant it as a friendly enquiry into what was wrapped under our tree back home, but it struck me speechless for a moment. What did I really want for Christmas? Even more, what did I really want for Christmas?
As the years have gone by, every Christmas season I ponder this question. And it has increasingly changed my perspective about the entire holiday. As I consider what to give others for Christmas, I think harder and try to find items that will be truly meaningful to the receiver. I find that I value creating memories with friends and family more than I desire "things" or presents under the tree. More and more I find myself feeling frustrated with those relatives who insist (sometimes obnoxiously) on putting the emphasis of the season on the quantity of presents under the tree. Yes, they are generous people. But perhaps they're missing the point.
So what would the "perfect" Christmas be for me? It wouldn't be limited to the unwrapping chaos at 7am on December 25th. It would be about baking cookies with my daughter and giving them to our neighbors. And cutting down our Christmas tree and decorating it while our favorite holiday music played in the background. Cutting out snowflakes with my husband and daughter and hanging them in the windows. Snuggling up on the couch with hot chocolate and the annual TV showing of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Driving around to look at the light displays. The Christmas Eve service at our church. And yes, even shopping for a few truly special and meaningful gifts for those closest to me.
I wish my Christmas could be a Who-ville Christmas----
"It came without ribbons! It came without tags!
It came without packages, boxes, or bags!
Maybe Christmas... doesn't come from a store.
Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more
Thursday, December 6, 2007
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