The Holidays in Perspective
I promised myself I wouldn't do it, but I did. I went to the
mall on Black Friday. What an education, to say the least. I can
only compare the complete store chaos to footage I've seen of
looting following a natural disaster. Unbelievable. There was
one store in particular we couldn't even enter because the
aisles were piled high with discarded items that I can only
assume had once been sitting nicely on a shelf. So I ask myself
why do we do it? Why does a holiday that is meant to be a
celebration of the birth of hope, peace, and eternal love turn
into a free-for-all circus? We are all guilty of losing sight of
the true meaning of Christmas. It is not about the 50% off or
buy one get one free sales. It is not about getting your kids
more toys than they will ever know what to do with. It is not
about having the most illuminated Santa Claus and Reindeer in
your front lawn. It is about spending time with those we love
and preparing for the celebration of His birth. This year, try
to spend more time with your family than with the store clerks.
The gift you give of yourself will be remembered long after
those store-bought items have lost their appeal. I wish you and
yours a very blessed and Merry Christmas.