For me, the past few years of buying Christmas gifts has been a struggle. The holidays seem to be less about family, Jesus, and love and more about consumerism. Maybe it’s always been this way, but lately, it’s started to weigh on me. I’m taking back the Christmas spirit.
The List
One of the things which robbed me of Christmas spirit in the past is “the list.” People make Christmas lists which contain 5-6 potential items that they would like for the holidays. The lists fly back and forth from various family members and in-laws about who plans to get what items. In summary, it’s an email auction.
I’m all for seeing something in a storefront window that “reminds” me of someone and buying it for them. But, lately, Christmas has become about, “the list.” Now, I get the point. Really, I do. It’s nice to buy people something they like, and the lists exist to make it easier for the gift buyer. However, the process robs me of the holiday spirit.
The Gift Card Exchange
Another way consumerism sucks the life out of me at Christmas is the gift card exchange. To explain, this exchange is when I buy a gift card for someone and they buy a gift card for me in return. While it is nice to shop with a gift card, the exact reciprocity lacks luster for me. I feel the same way about receiving money (I’m sure I’m alone in this). To be honest, I’d rather sit and talk over a glass of wine than receive a gift card or money. I like sharing time.
Taking Back the Christmas Spirit
Taking Back the Christmas SpiritI’m an emotional being (no matter how hard I try, I have not been able to change this and am not altogether sure I should). I want to be excited about a person’s gift! I want them to be surprised!
So this year, I removed myself from all lists. Further, I pledged not to participate in any gift card exchanges. Instead, I focused on buying gifts that resonated in my heart and spending time with others. I took my nieces out to Dave & Buster’s for our holiday outing so we could make memories together.
I’m hoping in this space away from holiday pitfalls, I can focus on what Christmas is about. Christ. Love. Family. Warmth. Good tidings. I think as a society we’ve shifted a little too far away from the true purpose.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
Love, K.
Author, Ten Iron Principles
Merry CHRISTmas Ms. Kelly. I promise; no gift cards or money for you this year, but a year’s full of prayers and blessings are coming your way. Be well sweet friend.
And that is what Christmas is all about. Our Savior is the ultimate gift and spending time with friends and family sharing His goodness gives Him the best birthday gift of all!
A beautiful reminder of staying true to the spirit of Christmas! Thanks for sharing your heart! Blessings for the new year!