Unwrap the real gifts of Christmas

If we’re not careful, the joy of Christmas can get lost in the wrappings and trappings of a hectic holiday. This year, try to slow down, simplify, and savor the true gifts of the season.

Give gifts from the heart. Deborah remembers, “One Christmas after my father lost his job, money was too tight to buy gifts. So we went to the library and found Christmas cookie recipes. We were elbow-deep in dough for weeks, and carefully wrapped our baked treasures with bright ribbons. I got real joy out of giving that year.”

Simplify your shopping. Carlos and his family found that buying for their large number was expensive and exhausting. They decided that each one would give to the person whose name he or she picked from a hat. “Not only do I have more time to enjoy the whole season, I can concentrate on making the gifts I do give really special.”

Retell the Story. Martin said, “When I was a boy, Dad read some of the Christmas story each Sunday night of Advent. He’d finish with the Nativity on Christmas morning. It was a great way to focus our celebration.” 

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