My Struggle to Find a Meaning for Christmas 2013

It's not from lack of material that I've gone 10+ days without posting on the blog.  Quite the contrary, if these past 10 days can be summed up into a Siskel and Ebert movie review, it would be "an action-packed drama, where comedy mixes with tragedy to present a life lesson."  

Before I sat down to write this I found myself pondering what the hell just happened to Christmas this year.  Recent events have made it very difficult to be merry and bright, but I remember a conversation I had with my uncle this evening.  I know you are all at the edge of your seats waiting to hear any details.  Sorry to disappoint, but I am refraining from getting into specifics out of respect, since the important part here is the message.

As we all know Christmas is celebrated because it is the birthday of Jesus Christ.  However, I believe that what he stood for is the reason why Christmas is not only celebrated by Christians, but by followers of many different religions.  When I think of Christ, I think of the compassion and love that one should show to everyone, regardless of the various qualities that may make us different.

What I have seen the past few days have been just that.  A huge outpouring of love and compassion from people who have never crossed paths before and who may never cross paths...EVER.  However, everyone was united for one cause, to show love and compassion for someone who was humble enough to ask for it.  

Christmas 2013 may not be the most joyful one, but it will be the one that will be remembered as the Christmas where presents didn't matter as much as the presence of family and loved ones.

Do Contra