December is just a couple of days away, which can only mean one thing: Christmas day will be here before we know it.
And that means another thing: the year has just flown by.
It’s rare to talk to someone who doesn’t share the view that time seems to move a lot quicker than it used.
None of us knows why, so it’s best to just move on and plan for what’s coming next.
And that’s Christmas.
There’s so much gift giving, well wishing and merry making we don’t have to wonder why it’s such a special time of the year.
We all know the story of the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25 and his life until his death on the cross.
It’s important that we do not forget the origins of this holiday, which offers lessons about sacrifice, sin and redemption, among others.
Not for a moment am I implying that we abandon things like gift giving to each other, sharing a feast and a glass of red wine or two.
It’s more about adding things to Christmas that could make it even more meaningful for us and our families – and the community we live in.
This year in particular a lot of people are doing it tough thanks to inflation and rising mortgage interest rates.
Readers will have their own ideas about these things, but just to get the conversation started, here’s my Top 5 Christmas boosters:
Number 1. When budgeting for Christmas gifts include enough money to buy one for a stranger.
Number 2. Volunteer to serve at a Christmas dinner for homeless or other disadvantaged groups in our community.
Number 3: If you’re a family elder, lead the way in talking about Christmas and what it means.
Number 4. On Christmas Day visit someone you know who will be all alone.
Number 5. Even if you’re not religious, say a little prayer for all the people of the world who are suffering one way or another.