As many of you know, I'm a pretty cynical guy. For a lot of years, I didn't care about the Christmas holiday, and felt that it was over-commercialized (it is!), with little remaining of its true meaning. The speculated birthdate of Christ is on the 25th of December, and should be a time of thanks, reflection, and family gatherings. For so long, I neglected to enjoy any of those things, but as I've aged and come to grips with my own mortality, my thoughts have shifted.
What is even more enjoyable is my family's desire to not have "stuff." Yes, we still exchange gifts, but they have evolved over time to meaningful items that carry with them an emotional value, as opposed to a monetary value. I much prefer a nice photo of my children and their families over other things, or handmade hats and scarves knitted with loving hands, rather than store-bought things.
I value Christmas now because of what it represents, AND what it has evolved into with my family. Getting together and laughing, spending time with one another, eating, and simply carrying on are the greatest gifts in my life. These are the things I have come to value much more so than anything else.
Over the past few weeks, I have had some life changing events transpire. This is what we call life, and learning to roll with the punches is a part of maturity. Appreciating the punches and jabs life throws at you can also be something that we welcome; detesting life's curveballs only serves to push us further into the abyss. So, during this Christmas holiday season, I will be thankful for everything I have and everything I've received, even the not-so-good-stuff, because it all serves a purpose in this old world.
I hope and pray you all have a glorious Christmas season and 2019 brings you each happiness, and whatever you define as prosperity. Having a ton of money doesn't necessarily bring either one of those things, but maintaining a well-oiled sense of self and family will!
Be glorious to one another, hug and love your family (even the family you don't like), and enjoy this holy season.
Merry Christmas!
