Christmas brings people back to magical childhood
HOW is it that when it comes to birthdays, summer holidays or other family events we look forward in anticipation but Christmas, for some reason, always seems to make us look back to times past and think of Christmases long ago?
Maybe it’s the music – the carols in church or the Christmas favourites on the radio that makes us think of former times with such nostalgia. They bring us back to some magical time in childhood when all seemed well with the world. And naturally, when measured against that ‘perfect Christmas’ that’s lodged forever in our minds, all our present Christmases are going to seem very poor in comparison.
Time takes its toll on us: loss and bereavement, financial struggles and separation can create a huge gulf between expectation and reality. For many, Christmas is a time to be endured rather than enjoyed. And yet, this time of year brings out huge generosity in people, moved by the plight of the poor and homeless. We should acknowledge the great work done by agencies like St Vincent de Paul and Crosscare who work on our behalf to bring relief to those in need. And in these days when we hear of a growth in racist attitudes and anti-foreigner sentiments, it is great to see so many people offering a warm welcome to the migrants and asylum seekers who have come to live among us. The Gospel tells us that there was no room at the inn for Mary and Joseph. Hopefully we can find room in our hearts to welcome the stranger and offer kindness and warmth to those in need.
My suggestion for a happy Christmas is to take a realistic approach; live in the present moment, appreciate the people who love and support you and give them the precious gift of time. Lower the expectation of a perfect Christmas and make the most of the blessings of ‘now’. By all means, remember the past and the people who are no longer with us. And treasure the happy memories you have of long ago and former Christmases. But the message of Christmas is about now. The birth of Christ is not just an event in history but a current reminder of the unique dignity of every person, loved by God as we are, despite all our imperfections and flaws.
May you and yours enjoy peace, joy and contentment in this season of goodwill.