Merry Christmas!
Christmas is supposed to be about giving, sharing, loving and visiting but all too often we get caught up in the idea of getting.
Life Is About Giving Not Only Getting
The word Christmas comes from the old English “Cristes maesse” meaning Christ’s Mass. After all, the Holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with caroling, gifts, feasts and family gatherings. The concept of jolly old St. Nick delivering presents has also been around for some time. While he used to distribute clementines, socks and smaller emblems, “Santa” has begun carrying larger gifts in his sleigh. This “Father Christmas” knows just what to bring because children write letters detailing their requests. It used to be that these letters were tossed into the fireplace rather than in the mailbox, because “Father Christmas” could read the wishes through the smoke. It’s for that reason that Santa is also said to enter houses through the chimney (This magical location is enhanced by the mystery of smoke and secrecy). It’s thought that “stockings” are hung to catch anything that Santa drops (In the old in days they believed that he dropped coins) down the chimney by accident (To prevent it from falling down the ash grate).
Another holiday tradition is singing. Caroling comes from the meaning “Song of you”. Serenaders used to travel from house to house singing songs while spreading the holiday spirit. While today they are known as Carolers, groups of people still rejoice ancient carols in hopes of lifting the winter spirits.
I can never resist a Candy Cane treat!
Decorating Christmas trees and hanging greens such as holly and ivy are also winter traditions that help boost winter spirits. After all, winter can be one of the most depressing seasons. These traditions not only build a sense of routine, they also create community through generations.
So while presents may seem like the BIGGEST part of Christmas celebrations, they aren’t! Food, Family and Friends are definitely MUSTS along with the memories, love and support that they provide.
❤ Molly
What did you do this holiday season? Were you able to give back by volunteering in the community? Did you go Christmas Caroling? Did you at least have a full Christmas feast?
Leave a comment below!! (Stay tuned for photos of my holiday celebration!!!)