Christmas Present!

Hey Guys!

Alright, firstly I apologize for it being almost a week since my last blog. I've been pretty sick recently. A fabulous Christmas present! Sarcasm intended.

  So as I am sure we all know, Christmas is right around the corner. Literally in one week. It's quite spectacular how quickly time flies. But I don't mind Christmas being right around the corner.

  Presents are fun, cookies are nice, hot cocoa is delicious, and Santa Clause make little kids' eyes sparkle with joy and hope. But the spirit of Christmas is also one of giving. I personally enjoy giving gifts rather than receiving gifts. It's always more rewarding to watch the receivers' eyes light up when they receive a few extra dollars, a new jacket, or a new toy. Churches provide excellent giving programs around this time year. It's quite amazing.

   What makes me a bit melancholy about this season is once it is over, it seems that that spirit of giving is over  as well. Or at least loses some of its strength. But I must remember there are different organizations that give every day.

   One of the best presents on Christmas is joy. I know that is corny, but it is true. Everyone usually is elated around this time of year. For one reason or another. It's always fun watching parents in stores Christmas shopping for their kids. Except for those crazy violent shoppers who push you out of their way. Those are the shoppers I could do without.

   I love how much family is centered and together on Christmas. My own family does everything together around and on Christmas. It gives the season a bit of magic.

   Although Christ was not technically born on Christmas, it is still amazing to think about that miracle. It reminds us that not all things are doomed, especially if love finds a way  to reside. We celebrate His birth now, which is fine, but more than that, we celebrate what He meant. Freedom, love, and hope. That's what Christmas means.

   To rejoice in our natural gifts of freedom, love, and hope. We have the freedom to hope and the hope to love and be loved. Usually, in some form or another, we are loved by some random gift, cup of hot cocoa, or even a fresh batch of cookies. So enjoy Christmas this year! Enjoy and embrace all it offers you. But my challenge to me and to you is try to maintain that spirit of joy, love, and hope all throughout the year. It is possible. I know people who do. Merry Christmas!!