Merry Christmas
As most of us are aware, Christmas, for christians around the world, is the celebration of the birth of Jesus. As you can well imagine, this makes Christmas one of the most important, if not the most important, religious holiday in the christian faith. Christmas though, is celebrated by people of many faiths around the world.
As I said earlier, Christmas is a special time. No matter who you are, no matter where you live, if you celebrate Christmas, I'm sure you have some very special memories. I know I do.*S* Take a minute now, and just think about it. Makes you feel kind of warm inside, doesn't it? That's just one of the things that makes Christmas special. However you plan to spend Christmas; at home, or at the home of family or friends, with the whole clan, or just that special someone; may this Christmas be one that will become one of those fond memories that you carry with you for the rest of your life.
I would like to share with you one of the reasons that Christmas is special to me. You see, Christmas day is also my birthday.*S* As a child, I have to admit that I wasn't too fond of the idea. It meant never being able to have a party. To everyone else I knew, their birthday was their special day. On that day they got all the attention, and friends and family came over to visit them. Christmas though is for everyone. Sure, most people wished me a happy birthday, but it wasn't the same. For a small child, it was hard to deal with. As I grew up though, I began to see it differently. As I see it, a birthday is for a single person. They are the center of attention. It isn't so on Chrismas. Christmas is about giving, and sharing. I no longer mind sharing my birthday with everyone else. In fact, it's kind of nice to know that people around the world are getting together to celebrate with those that mean the most to them. I know that they aren't celebrating my birthday, but it happens on my birthday, and that makes me feel kind of warm inside.*S*
One last thing before I go. While you are preparing for Christmas, and making holiday plans; please remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves. Around the world, and right in our home towns, there are many people who won't be sitting down to unwrap the presents under the tree, or a nice hot turkey dinner. If you can find it within yourself, take a little time to do something to help out. Whether that means a donation of food, toys, money, or time to the local Salvation Army, or shelter, it is a small gesture that will make the difference to a family that isn't as fortunate as we are. Remember, it is the season of peace and good will towards men. May the happiness and joy of the season be with you and yours throughout the holidays and the coming year.*S* From my home to yours, Merry Christmas!