‘Tis Christmas season again. How time flies from one Christmas to the next. Every year we say the same thing: “it’s Christmas time already?! Where did the year go?” And it seems not too long ago we were celebrating the new year. And here we are again, the Christmas spirit is on one more time. We find ourselves going around in robotic mode … we are overwhelmed with all the things we have to prepare. We run around like headless chicken. And we get caught up like we always do. What does Christmas mean to us anymore? Do we even know?!!

The other day I read a post on facebook. It truly touched me and I knew I had to write about it. It mentions how we experience the holiday season differently. It’s not always the case that everyone is happy, in good health and with their family. Some may be estranged, some may be really sick and some may have lost a loved one and it’s their first Christmas without them. So it may be hard this time of year on many people. And each individual handles their situations in the way that makes them comfortable. And it’s totally their right.

You may know some of those people who are struggling and emotional, and there are lots more you may not know. So just remember when you are buying presents for your loved ones, someone out there will not be getting a present, let alone a Christmas wish. When you are decorating your home, preparing your favourite foods; from turkey to cakes to eggnog, remember there is someone out there who doesn’t have a home, or a piece of bread to eat or warm clothing for the winter. The least you can do is remember them in your prayers. You may or may not be able to help the needy, but a sincere prayer won’t cost you anything.

And so this Christmas, let’s make a difference somehow. Let’s stop thinking about ourselves only. Let’s try to put a smile on one person’s face. Why not do some volunteer work, you are donating your time and that is valuable. Why not try to make someone’s Christmas; a special one. Let’s send a simple card to our neighbour. Let’s make small gestures that would go a long way.

It is the little gestures we do and it is the little things we say that will make the big difference in someone else’s life. Let us be mindful with our celebration if someone is grieving. Give them their space while trying to be there. Let’s get back to the true meaning of Christmas. Let us go back to giving; of all kinds. Let us be GOD’s children with our actions, not only words. And don’t be afraid to say “Merry Christmas”. There is no offence in celebrating the birth of our saviour, the lord, Jesus Christ. And so my dear readers I say to you: “Have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year”.