Christmas is a wonderful time. A time for sharing, a time for caring and a time for giving. It is also a manic time when the roads are busy and the shops are packed. It is easy to lose sight of the real meaning behind those neatly wrapped packages under the tree.
Why do we give each other gifts at Christmas? Some say it is inspired by the gifts given to the baby Jesus by the wise men in that first Christmas season. Some say it was inspired by a Turkish bishop in 300 AD who selflessly gifted time, money and gifts to those in need. Many people say it is a tradition as old as mankind- that in the dark winter days, people have always felt a deep urge to brighten the lives of those they care for. One common thread runs throughout- we give gifts to show love and respect and to honour those who make a difference in our lives.
In our hectic lives, which only become more hectic during the Christmas season, it is all to easy to to get caught up in the logistics of gift giving- have I spent enough? Has everyone got enough? Do I have enough to pay for all of this? Will it arrive on time? WHERE HAS THE STICKY TAPE GONE??? We can miss the fun of planning that perfect surprise, the anxious excitement as the gift is unwrapped, and the joy on a loved ones face as they see the love and thought that went into their special gift.
And that brings us nicely to the point of this site- our family’s gifting circle
Each of us will be given one name and a few months to prepare. One person to concentrate on and find a gift that will make them feel loved and special on Christmas morning. You can ask sneaky questions, pay attention when they daydream or look with longing at a shop window or advert. Get to know the things that excite your special person- are they the same things as last year? Is there something new that’s caught their imagination or a long held love for a certain thing? Is there something you know they will love, even if they hadn’t even thought about it’s existance? Perhaps you will find a gift that brings back all the warm memories of a happy time you both shared. The possibilties are infinite – which is appropriate, because so is love.
So, in the words of the Jackson 5 on Mam’s well-played Motown Christmas album- let’s give love on Christmas day.
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