14 Things I Love about Christmas
Those close to me know that I love Christmas! I often get teased by family members because I love it so much! Last year, I even threw a fit because we didn't have a Christmas tree! We donated ours when we moved to California, and I was so bummed to go into December without it. It wasn't in our budget at the time, to get another one, even if it was used. I was very sad during this time last year. :(
As I reflect on why this time of year is so important to me, I realize it's because the Christmas season was an escape from the harsh realities of life, of the hurt and broken relationships within my family, and ultimately, of a hurt and broken me. Christmastime was a time where we came together, shared a festive meal, and spent time talking and bonding. Anger, pride, bitterness, hate, and chaos was no longer at the center of everything. It just couldn't be, with the power of the Christmas spirit. As a child, I saw how love could conquer all, during this time.
For me, it wasn't even about the gifts back then, that was just the icing on the cake. Neither is that the main reason why I love the season today. It's more about the nostalgia and reminiscing on those sweet memories I had as a child. I know now that I disassociated a lot as a child, because I can't remember a lot from my childhood, but I do remember Christmas. I believe it's because Christmas was filled with hope, and that was what kept me going. It's what helped me cope; it's what kept me alive, and ultimately, it's how I survived.
I don't remember other holidays as vividly as I do Christmas. Christmas is always the holiday that stands out, which is why it has such a special place in my heart. For instance, I remember making a popcorn garland, and I remember the fresh smell from the real pine tree we had. It didn't occur to me that we used popcorn because we were poor. It was a time when everyone gathered, and the house was warm with laughter and people I loved. The problems were no longer highlighted, but was overshadowed with things like the birth of Christ, food, and fun.
I know Christmastime isn't great for everyone, especially if you've recently lost a loved one. I, too, have lost two siblings. It hasn't even been a year since I lost my brother Charles, a loving brother and strong father figure. So, know that my heart goes out to you, and I too am cognizant of your grief and pain. I pray for God's spirit to comfort you during this time. I hope that you can reminisce (as I am), but also create new memories with your loved ones who are still here.
So without further ado, here are 14 reasons why I love Christmas:
It's the season in which our Lord and Savior Jesus was born: It's not Christmas for me, without celebrating the birth of Jesus. He is, after all, the reason for the season! That's why I think this season is so powerful, because Jesus can shine through each and every one of us!
It's a time of miracles: Whether you hear stories of people paying off Christmas gifts that were on layaway, or families coming together and reconciling despite their differences, this season is always encouraging and inspiring. People tend to love, give, receive, and forgive more. Christmas wishes, prayers, hopes, and blesses are honored.
Christmas movies: Movies like Home Alone are always a must during this time of year. These feel-good movies are what carried me through as a child, filling me up with love and laughter.
Decorating the tree: You can't have Christmas without the tree! As a child and now, I love hanging up the ornaments, tinsel garland, and candy canes. Trees, like us, come in all shapes and sizes! I personally love the fat and full tress, but the slender ones are okay too. I also love seeing how others decorate their tree; people are so unique and creative, and their trees look fabulous!
Wrapping gifts: I love wrapping gifts, even the oddly shaped boxes. It's so relaxing to me. I love doing it so much that, a few years back, the youth group I facilitated, and I, volunteered to wrap gifts at the mall for, Bundles of Joy. An organization that bought diapers for struggling families. The different types of wrapping paper are so fun to see! I personally love the shiny kind!
Yummy food: I don't know about you all, but we don't get the ""good"" food, unless it's a special occasion. For me, these are egg rolls, turkey, prime rib, and other delicacies. As for desserts, I particularly like Hershey's chocolate peppermint kisses and Milano Peppermints Slices. Don't forget about the hot cocoa with marshmallows!
Bright and colorful lights: Driving through neighborhoods with bright lights was always a delight to see. Now, I get to see my daughters' eyes open wide and their mouths drop, when they see a dazzling, beautifully, decorated house. Their smiles always warm my soul.
Christmas music: I love Christmas music, whether it's Christian or secular. The upbeat tunes with all the bells, triangle, piano, flute and other instruments! It just make the holidays that much more fun! (I am listening to Christmas music as I type this! Tee-hee)
Giving gifts: I love wrapping gifts, but giving gifts has to be in a whole separate category of its own. I love taking notes throughout the year, of what my loved ones would like or need, then surprising them. The joy it brings them is priceless! How about them Black Friday sales? Yep! I love that too! (Spoiler alert: I also get made fun of because I can't wait for my recipients to open their gifts, nor can I wait myself. If you don't want me to open my gift early, try giving it to me on Christmas day or after). I should also mention, that the Bible has a lot to say about giving. It specifically says, A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed (Proverbs 11:25). Giving is very refreshing!
Kids: You can't have Christmas without kids! Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, ""Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."" Jesus loves kids, and so do I. They're so innocent, full of faith, and easy to please! Also, I'm still a kid at heart. I think a part of us will always be.
Receiving gifts: Okay, I know this is the third gift category, but I too love to open and receive gifts. Gifts show love, appreciation, and being thought of. Who doesn't like to be loved, appreciated, or thought about? I know I do!
Snow: So, last year was a pretty brown Christmas for my family and I. I actually missed the snow! Now wait a minute, I didn't say cold, I said snow! I miss looking outside (while being warm inside) seeing the beautiful, white, glistening snow everywhere, covering the trees and homes. It's spectacular to see! Snow also gives you a good reason to wear fluffy warm socks and sweaters!
Smell: Vanilla, pine, cookies? Ohhhh, the smells of Christmas are fantastic! I even love the smell of Scotch tape and wrapping paper!
Family and Friends: Having people to spend the holidays is the best part. Christmas wouldn't be special without the people in your life who make it special. I am so thankful for all of my family and friends, old and new.
So, there you have it. 14 reasons why I love Christmas! Feel free to share your traditions, the memorable things you've done, or what you love about Christmas! Praying for you all to have a love-filled Christmas, and don't forget, JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! God bless!
