Christmas

December 25th is one of the most important days to Christians all over the world as it is the day we believe Jesus, the son of God, was born on earth. For me, Christmas is important as I am Christian and it’s the one time of year where I get to see most of my family -- the ones you don’t really see throughout the year and have a good time, laughing and taking pictures. But best of all is opening each others’ presents. For someone with a loving family Christmas is great but there are many people out there that find this time of year emotionally difficult because they realize how important a family is. If you don’t have anyone to call you or wish you a Merry Christmas you can become quite sad and feel rejected. It’s funny that Christmas can either be a wonderful experience or a depressing one. As I witnessed from two individuals who do not have a loving family, they couldn’t wait for Christmas to end because while everyone else was receiving gifts, taking pictures, going out to eat for dinner, they stayed home all alone and were lucky to receive a Merry Christmas phone call from their own mother. My Christmas experiences have been mostly positive thanks to God. Something else I am starting to notice is that this day is becoming more about the day off (work, school) and the gifts than the true meaning or significance of what this day should represent. As I shop, people do not say Merry Christmas but choose to say “Happy Holidays” instead. I also tend to see less people at the Christmas Eve service at church as the years go by and religion loses its place in a consumer-oriented society. Even at my Catholic school many of the people there don’t even recognize the true meaning or spirit of this holy occasion but think mostly of getting gifts and are far more excited about the Boxing Day sales after Christmas. I think that’s pretty sad. If you do (or, sadly, don’t) let me know what you’re thoughts are. Please post your comments respectfully below.