#48: Why I Celebrate Christmas

In previous posts, I have described how certain holiday seasons were hard for me to find the Christmas spirit (and how many others are struggling and in pain during this time of year). But I also want to share the reasons I choose to celebrate the season. 

1.)   To Celebrate the Birth of Jesus
 When the world was driven to darkness, Jesus was the guiding light that illuminated a different path, away from darkness and towards Godliness. My family attends Christmas Eve mass together each year. We prioritize celebrating the gift that Christ is, rather than the gifts under the tree. 

2.) To Spread Joy 
The definition of joy is “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.” To me, that is giving, loving, and laughing more. One of my favorite aspects of Christmas is how my husband, kids, and grandkids laugh together. We can carry and spread joy all season long! 

3.) To Share Peace, Faith, and Love 
Christmas is a holiday observed by people of all creeds and faiths. This is a festive time honoring love, warmth, joy, and selflessness. We can be a good neighbor and show kindness to strangers and our loved ones, embracing those who celebrate similarly and dissimilarly to us. 

4.) To Experience the Joy of Giving 
During the holiday season, people share food, gifts, and time. You can refer to my last post (#47: Blessing Others During the Holiday Season) for ways to give. Inner joy comes not from receiving, but in giving. 

5.) Happy Times with Loved Ones  
I am fortunate to feel the warmth and affection of my loved ones during the Christmas holiday. My children and grandchildren come home, and we share time and make memories together. We watch movies together (even though we’ve seen them over 100 times), bake and break bread together, and play games (an egg toss and cookie contest to name a few). We connect with each other and always share what we are most grateful for with, and the house is filled with so much laughter. I hope you find ways to spend meaningful time with family or friends who feel like family. 

6.) Bringing Light into the World 
How you show up to your job, Christmas mass, gatherings with family and friends matters. Be a light. Don’t be a scrooge or obsess over the “stuff” under the tree. This doesn’t mean put on a fake happy face, but rather I hope inspires you to find a way to carry joy with you and let it radiate from you. Helen Keller lost her hearing and sight as a child, but a woman named Annie Sullivan came into her life and taught her how to hear and see without using her eyes. Annie Sullivan was Helen Keller's light.    
Why do you celebrate Christmas? What is the meaning of the season for you and your family? Is there a tradition that you love? Why? Is there something you wish to change? Do it! I would love to hear from you in the comments, and I hope you have a very Merry Christmas.
Until Next Monday...