When did Christmas become

“The Season of Stuff?”

When did we decide that spending time together

Just isn’t enough?

We spend hours in malls

Stressing over the perfect gift,

But then our Christmas spirit starts to dwindle,

And our attitude starts to shift…

We have created this holiday

To be all about our wish list.

It’s such a shame

Because there is so much we’ve missed.

Christmas is about love.

It’s about good deeds, celebration, and peace.

We often bypass the simple beauty

Of sweet time with loved ones and looking at lights on the streets.

Warm drinks, age-old carols, the fire crackling,

And that wonderful smell of the pine tree

Are the best things about Christmas—

Better than anything we purchase will ever be.

I’m not saying gifts are terrible;

They actually bring much joy.

But we are teaching our children

That happiness can only come through a toy.

Let’s be honest:

We have too much stuff.

Our houses are overflowing…

Don’t lie—it’s rough.

I say we change the way we do Christmas.

Let’s stop buying items we won’t even use.

Instead, go on a trip, go to a concert, or go to a nice dinner.

Create memories you’ll never lose.

Really, rethink the way you buy gifts.

Give some material goods, but also give things that will last.

Experiences will dance in your mind forever,

But shoes, clothes, toys, and technology will fade fast.

Also remember those

Who don’t have what they need this holiday

It is our job to help those people, feed them, clothe them,

Listen to them, love them, and pray.

Remind yourself what Christmas is all about:

Jesus was born to save us and give us life

Go and be His hands and feet—

Love people, be generous, and be kind.