What is it about Christmas?

Blog by Carolyn Burnet

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]Why am I looking forward to this particular day, while trying not to worry about the things that I choose to do to make it special?

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]Christmas for most of us is a time of additional activity and expense, a time that things must be completed by, a time of lists, a time to yearn for home and familiar rituals, a time to keenly feel the loss of those who aren’t with us, but most of all a time for joining with other people. Family, friends, strangers, the poor and the fortunate, the sick, the bereaved – all are thought about and remembered.

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]The long lists, the cleaning, the shopping, the cooking, the wrapping – all to join with those we care about. For just one day.

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]We have our own ways to celebrate and come together. Traditions are repeated or new ones started, with every-one accepting that there are many ways to acknowledge the day. There is no “right” way to celebrate but all are equally relevant.

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]Personally, I am my alter-ego in December. Usually careful with money, I now spend freely and extravagantly. I prefer a quiet, tidy house but bring out an excess of decorations that cannot honestly be described as “tasteful”. Cooking and I are not the best of friends for the vast majority of the year, but I relish baking a Christmas cake, dozens of brandy-laced mince pies, festive chocolates, and a bountiful Christmas meal.

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]And why?

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]Because Christmas is about the people that I care about, and thinking about those that I don’t even know. Our day includes those who may not be able to share the day with those closest to them and I rejoice that they share their day with us. Additional gifts or donations are made for those who are less fortunate. The Salvation Army, church communities, radio appeals – all ask us to give a little to those who need help. And we willingly do so as we understand that giving to unknown others is integral to sharing our own good fortune and loved family.

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]We look back over the year, share stories and laughter, and take the time to simply be together. Of course we can do this at any time of the year – but how often do we choose to devote a day to join with others? We can plan to meet at other times, but rarely can a date be found that suits everyone – except Christmas. That one day.

[dt_gap height=”10″ /]People – that is what Christmas is about to me.