“Santa cutie, and fill my stocking with a duplex, and checks, sign your ‘X’ on the line.” Oh, but Santa baby, Marilyn Monroe, and just about everyone else nowadays, wants more, more, more.  Just when did Christmas lose the true reason for the season?  Now, I don’t think that everyone needs to believe in Christ.  Each person has the right to his or her individual thoughts and beliefs.  But why must we change a celebration of Christ’s birth into a celebration of receiving material goods?  Granted, some enjoy giving, but whether or not they admit it, the majority finds the most pleasure in opening up those holiday gifts. This video helped open my eyes to how much the Christmas season has turned to material presents instead of the presence of Christ.

Of course, it would be horrible to get rid of the holiday cheer that comes along with this season of consumerism.  Albeit, I’d like to think the holiday cheer would remain even if the purchases were toned down a little bit.  But I don’t think it should be associated with religion.  Yes, Jesus was showered with gold, frankincense and myrrh, which shows that it can be a season of giving. However, in my mind it makes more sense to celebrate by giving non-materialistic gifts.  One of the best gifts I feel like one could give over the season is the gift of love.  It doesn’t have to be romantic love or the kind of love you have for your family.  Even showing compassion or love for a stranger by opening a door, picking up something they dropped, etc, could mean more than you realize.

The gift of time is also a great thing to give.  Think of how busy we are in our day-to-day lives.  It isn’t often that we stop to truly listen to someone and let them know we are here for them.  If you want to step up that gift, give your time together and help out at a food shelter, animal shelter, or any other place that takes volunteers.  It is a great way to see your loved ones and bond while helping others.

If you are searching for other ways to give something non-material there are numerous articles and suggestions online, like this page. And, if you do happen to be a Christian, make sure to realize why this day exists and celebrate His presence… with or without the presents.