We are at the point in the season where Christmas break is a mere few days away and the excitement is palpable. Being the mom of two little ones and teaching first grade, we are knee-deep in elves, hoping for what Santa will bring, sugar cookies, and all things magic.
While my husband and I try to impress on our children that the true meaning of Christmas is the birth of Jesus, they cannot help but dream about Christmas morning and the hopeful presents that await. We’ve got our Christmas pjs ready to go and are chomping at the bit for an excuse to have another cup of hot cocoa and watch yet another classic movie.
As much as my husband and I try to refocus the attention of our children on the birth of Jesus, we also try to use this time as an opportunity to remind our kids that there are other people in the world, too. If there is one thing, I want my kids to not only understand is that yes, it’s exciting to have Santa come and be spoiled by Grandma, but nothing feels better than giving to others. Like many other families, we take our children to the toy store and have them buy toys for other children in need. We talk about the children who will receive the gifts they purchase and try to instill in them a sense of not only giving, but also gratitude. It’s hard because they are still little and while we don’t want to rob them too much of their innocence, they do need to realize that they are blessed and to whom much is given, much is expected.
My heart was touched when I saw the excitement on their faces when picking out toys for others that they will likely never meet. They didn’t ask for anything for themselves and understood that the shopping trip was not about them. I want my kids to understand that giving is where we receive a full heart.
I also want them to understand and appreciate the gift of time they have with their family. They will not remember the toys they got this Christmas as an adult. They will remember the traditions spent with their family, and hopefully, instill in their own children a spirit of giving and gratitude for the time they have with loved ones.
This holiday season is an extra special one because my nephew, Noah, who was adopted this year, will be part of the memories we make as a family. The kids finally have a “cousin crew.” I cannot wait for the cousins to be in their matching pajamas on Christmas Eve and to enjoy a beautiful spread on Christmas Eve at my sister’s house. I treasure the time watching them hear The Night Before Christmas read to them, and watching my sister finally get her turn to be a mom on Christmas morning.
May this Christmas be one of giving, gratitude, and peace. Do not lose sight of what the day and season is about. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
Megan Rathz is a wife, mother, and teacher. She says everything she has ever learned in life came from her Master Gardener mother.
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