photo credit: Marufish

Christmas is not just a gift-buying frenzy, a stressful excuse to increase our indebtedness. Not the real Christmas, that is.

It isn't even dear old Santa, although he is fun and part of my holiday decorations, too.  What is it then?

It goes back to the one it is named for, the Christ child. It's his birthday and we sometimes forget to talk to the kids about that.

May I suggest that this year you  start a family tradition of reading the story of the first Christmas?  There are many books written for children, but some confuse the Biblical story with added plots, etc. I like to go straight to the source, like Linus in the Charlie Brown Christmas Program.  He quotes directly from the second chapter of Luke  in the Holy Bible.  You can't top that.

You don't have to be of the Christian faith to celebrate the season, or to read the story.  It is for everyone.  It speaks of peace on earth and goodwill toward men.

It is a wonderful time to feel warmth and kindness to those around you.  So instead of making it a crazy time filled with exhaustion,  look for the spiritual strength that comes from when you choose to follow the star.

Happy Holidays, and Merry Christmas to one and all,

The Schoolmarm

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