The Magic of Christmas 2020

Christmas in 2020 will probably look a lot different for most of us, but after the past year I think we can all use some Christmas magic to remind us of all the good things in this world. Someone told me the other day that Christmas is for kids, and people who want to feel like kids for a little while. I also believe sometimes people experience bad things, and have Christmas taken from them. Sometimes people need someone to help them remember what Christmas is truly about. Christmas is the time to remember that love came down to find you here right where you are now, and it happens again year after year. I think we all could use a reminder of Christmas joy and the love from above that started it all.

In some ways Christmas has become commercialized, but this year that has all changed. Black Friday had taken over Thanksgiving Day leaving many people working and unable to enjoy the holiday with their families and friends. Stores had extended or 24 hour shopping during December leaving many shopping or working during the wee hours of the night. We spent our evenings running from holiday party to holiday party rather than making memories with our kids. However, this year we have seen a turn of events where most stores closed on Thanksgiving, and I do not know of any stores having extended shopping hours. Holiday parties have been reduced or done away with to prevent large gatherings. I for one like the way the holidays have looked this year where we have spent more time at home being present with our families spending quality time together. Christmas is about love which is the best present of all.

Christmas is a time to celebrate love, joy, and kindness with family, friends, and neighbors. I have seen some really amazing things in my local community during this holiday season. People reaching out to help feed those in need by donating food and money to local charities, and the out pour of toys donated to local charities that help make sure every kid has a good Christmas. Helping others is one of the best ways to share the love from above that started all of our Christmas traditions. Christmas shouldn't be about the presents you receive, but about sharing love and kindness. This Christmas why not be present rather than buying presents. What other time of year is as magical as Christmas when people go out of their way to help others and share joy with one another.

This year my girls and I are going to make Christmas magical by making memories that will last a life time here at home. We are going to make homemade Christmas ornaments for the tree. Bake Christmas cookies to decorate, and build a ginger bread house together. We will watch Christmas movies, play games together, drink hot cocoa, and go for a drive to look at Christmas tree lights. Then have a quiet Christmas dinner, and share plates with my elderly neighbors who will spend the holidays all alone. These moments are where the true magic of Christmas will be remembered for years to come.

We may miss the parties and big family get-togethers, but we can make one of a kind memories they will remember with their kids in the future. Ultimately the magic is in making memories, and sharing love and joy with others. We make those memories by being present and spending quality time with those we love.

People run around 90 to nothing not enjoying life during the holidays. Maybe 2020 is trying to teach us to slow down and enjoy the lights, music, sounds, smells, and family time. Close your eyes and smell the fresh pine scent as you walk through the Christmas tree farm or lot, and let it take you back to your childhood. Smell the cookies baking in the oven, and think about baking cookies with loved ones. Ultimately just slow down and remember good memories of Christmas past and make memories of Christmas present for Christmas futures to come.