True Meaning of Christmas

By Sunny P. Chico

For some families, Christmas is lost amid all the shopping frenzy, party throwing and the sounds of the cash register as they rush to buy gifts for all their loved ones. Let’s not forget that the true meaning of Christmas for Christians is about celebrating the gift God gave us through the birth of his son. I look at it as a new beginning every year. It’s a time to reflect on how blessed we are despite the bad moments we faced throughout the year, such as deaths or sickness in the family. Christmas is for strengthening family ties and sharing with others. Being generous and giving ourselves to others comes with the holiday spirit.

Here are some things that I do personally to give back. These can help reconnect you and children of any age to the true meaning of Christmas:

1. Toy drives. Organize a toy drive at your work place. Set a toy bin at the entrance of your office and ask people from your company and from the whole office building to cooperate with toys for children in need. You will be amazed by the positive response you will get! Buying children toys is one of the most gratifying things you can do to celebrate Christmas.
2. Donate to a charity. There are hundreds of charities across the country that support everything from environmental causes to children’s welfare. Pick one and donate what you can, whether it’s with money or with your time through volunteering. Commit to the cause and make sure to follow up periodically to figure out how the organization is fighting for the cause of your choice.
3. Encourage family members to give. Every year I ask my children ten questions targeted to what I’m going to get them: what do you need for your house? What is your favorite color for a sweater? This year I’m asking them about their favorite charity because as a gift to them, we are donating to the one they pick.

Gifts and parties are important and fun, but we need to remember that giving and receiving cannot be measured in dollars. Aiming to spread cheer and gratitude with your Christmas gifts is what counts. The more we do this, the more love and compassion will carry us through the new year. God Bless and Merry Christmas, from my family to yours.