It’s hard to believe that Christmas is just three days away. This time of year always stirs something special in my heart—a mix of joy, nostalgia, and gratitude. I’ve loved the holiday season for as long as I can remember, but not just because of Christmas morning or the gifts under the tree (though as a kid, that was ALWAYS exciting). For me, it’s always been about something bigger, something deeper.
There’s a feeling in the air this time of year, isn’t there? It’s hard to put into words, but you know it when you feel it. It’s in the twinkle of Christmas lights strung across rooftops, in the familiar notes of holiday songs that make your heart feel full. It’s the way people seem to be just a little kinder, a little more giving, as if the season brings out the best in all of us.
When I think back on my childhood Christmases, some of my favorite memories have nothing to do with what was wrapped up in shiny paper. It was the time spent with family, the joy in finding the perfect gift for someone else, driving around looking at Christmas lights, and the small acts of kindness that often seem to multiply during this season. It’s these things—the giving spirit—that always made Christmas magical to me.
The truth is, the holidays are about so much more than what we receive. It’s a time to open our hearts wide—to give, to share, to lift each other up. Sometimes, this can mean volunteering your time. Other times, it’s as simple as a heartfelt “thank you,” an act of forgiveness, or even just a smile for someone who needs it.
This week, as we count down to Christmas Day, I hope we can all remember that the true magic of the season lies in love, compassion, and connection. It’s in the giving, not the getting. And the beauty of that kind of giving is that its impact lasts long after the decorations come down and the gifts are opened.
May your days ahead be filled with warmth, light, and joy. Wishing each of you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas. Thank you for being part of my reflections each week—you’ve given me inspiration and connection that I am so grateful for.
💛Christiana