Princeton Happenings

Finding Christmas

There is a song by Faith Hill, “Where are you Christmas?” that starts off with that question, and wondering why Christmas has gone away? They go on to question if they can’t feel Christmas because their world is changing and does that mean Christmas changes too? Later on in the song they realize that “If there is love in your heart and your mind you will feel Christmas all the time.”

This year more than ever my husband and I have felt very blessed in our lives and have decided that we don’t need or want for anything this Christmas. Instead of buying gifts for each other, we have decided this year that we want to give back to others. The gift of giving is one of the best ones you will ever receive. Think of all you are blessed with, and then start to think of others and see if there is anyone you can help instead of wanting that new electronic, or those diamond earrings you have been eyeing.

Is there a family that you know who may have fallen on hard times? Maybe a family member became ill, or lost a job. Maybe there was a new member added to the household and money is tight. Maybe a family member or coworker is all alone this Christmas season and a nice meal and a little gift may go a long way. How can you give back? Can you pay a bill for someone, or send a box of food for a Christmas dinner? Can you buy some clothes for a child in need, or grant a special Christmas wish?

As much as I love presents and gifts, I realized I’m pretty spoiled, or blessed if you want to think of it that way. I have fallen on hard times and have had friends and family pick me up and help me unexpectedly. How do I repay them? I pay it forward.

If you have never given of your time or resources during the holiday season, try it this year. I guarantee that you WILL find Christmas in the gift of giving!