Getting the Most Out of Christmas

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This year, I can’t shake the feeling that Christmas really loses its magic when the fundamentals are taken out. I just downloaded some of my favorite Christmas songs that always brought home the true meaning to me, and began to think about ideas for making this time of year more meaningful.

Family traditions are great, but often are sought with unrealistic expectations by some and recieved with boredom by others. Making a wish list, asking for things from “Santa”- doesn’t it all just scream THIS IS ABOUT MEEEEE! ?

I read a little article on the idea of having every one in your family pick a charity they most support. Instead of giving them a gift, a material possession, why not put the same amount of money towards that charity?

As I mentioned in my previous post, don’t forget to think about those in need during the holidays. I have had Christmas’ celebrated in a one bedroom apartment that my father, brother and I shared. I have had a houseplant with a $1 strand of white lights on it as a Christmas tree. One Christmas, all any one could afford for eachother was a card. But I was very fortunate for these memories, as each time the family was closer than ever. Other years, we were similarly blessed by serving those in need. My dad and I once spent our Christmas day serving immigrants in south Florida meals, which was something I will never forget. Through one organization I was a part of in highschool, we raised money to purchase gifts for a local family and brought it to them ourselves, seeing the little house they lived in and the child’s big eyes staring at the presents. Another year, some friends and I put on a christmas party and charged a $2 fee or a canned good, and then donated it all to an organization supplying families with meals and toys on Christmas Day. I also recall going with a group of friends to sing carols to the elderly home nearby, which brought such joy to their hearts that many were brought to tears. All of these are great ideas for ways to get involved, and it will amaze you at how great it feels for YOU. When you do stuff like that, suddenly it all makes sense. The commercial high wears off, but its replaced by something like the Grinch’s heart growing three sizes.

I will try to find some good resources for those local who wish to volunteer time, as well as charity links in case any one feels compelled to give. Also, Lakeland Local often posts about local volunteer opportunities.