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Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. When I was a little girl of 4 or 5 the anticipation I felt as Christmas came close was that of pure joy. I couldn’t wait to sit on Santa’s lap with my well thought out list of goodies. Whether it was a new baby doll, art supplies or even a new favorite book I would giggle with excitement sharing this with Santa. I am very lucky because I have a big family. All of my brothers and sisters were always as excited as I was. We have always had a wonderful time together wrapping presents, baking cookies and just spending time together.
This year I am 14 and I still feel the same joy and excitement of the season. Though I still look forward to the gifts Santa brings I have come to realize the true meaning of Christmas. It is the celebration of Jesus’ birth, time spent with family and friends, and being grateful for the things we have.
As you celebrate with your family and friends this holiday season please remember those who are less fortunate. It is important to think about those who serve in our military and their families and to help those who have lost their jobs or their homes. Giving back is the best way to celebrate the Christmas season.
My wish for all is to have a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!
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Ok, so I think we’ve all seen the Christmas articles about what the holidays really mean. Now I’m not going to bore you with tales of “The Right Family Christmas” but I am going to show you what I think about this time of year and what it has become.
I do think that Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, but ask some kid on the street what it means and they will proudly answer “It’s about Santa Claus giving me presents!” So over the years it has gone from celebrating Jesus, to the joy of giving, to not caring at all. So you’re probably thinking to yourself; that’s not me! Well think about it do you consistently remind yourself that this day is about the joy of giving and about celebrating God and his son? Or do you think about what little Johnny wants for Christmas, and if the relatives will like your center piece. Well I think we’ve all lost a little faith, yes even me, I admit it. So what are we going to do about it? We can’t change the whole entire 20th century race! Well let’s think for a moment. The holidays are always busy believe me I no, but do you think we can take just a little time out for ourselves to sit down with our children and talk to them about what they think Christmas is about and what it really is. Or maybe can we just remind ourselves on a daily basis that we are here because of Christmas. (Now that’s self discipline).
Here’s the other thing. Do you remember that little talk you had with your counselor about pier pressure way back in 5th grade? Well even though we are grownups, (I think) we all know that when Carol brings in her award winning roast its game time. We all want to have the best food, the best house, and the best presents to show off to our friends. So when we go shopping we are not exactly thinking about what Jesus would do. I do urge you though to think about what Christmas really means and what it means to you. Happy Holidays!
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Thank you to all of the wonderful writers, including my students, who have been a part of the Cub Reporter. I am so proud of all of you! I send a special thank you to those of who you have encouraged and supported our writers and me with this endeavor this semester. On behalf of our LHS writers, we express much gratitude to Melissa Blackburn and the Opelika-Auburn News for seeing our efforts to fruition. We enjoy being a part of this exciting journey, and we wish for everyone to enjoy the best of this season and the happiest of new years!
- Amy Holley, Loachapoka High School
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