What Happened to Christmas?
Family, friends and colleagues have been calling or e-mailing me with suggestions for articles. The one topic that is “off the charts” is Christmas, and I couldn’t agree more. Now that we’re in this economic nightmare the usual spending frenzy seems more outdated and inappropriate than ever. What did happen to Christmas?
Nowadays, it’s all about how much money we can spend; you know, keeping up with the Jones. But now with terrible losses in the market, baby boomers (like myself) lost a considerable amount of their retirement. Most have decided to work longer to compensate for the loss and what a shame. But that’s life and we have to make the best of it.
So we need to stop and think about getting back to basics. Let’s start with Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. Let’s not go out and spend money we do not have on nonsense. Growing up, my parents stressed helping people in need and sharing Christmas with family and friends. Most gifts were hand-made, such as a knitted or crotched sweater, mittens, hat or scarf. We always went to midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and gathered on Christmas Day with family and friends to share Christmas dinner. Afterward, we played cards or board games till late in the night, laughing and sharing special times that will always be treasured. What great memories!
One of best explanations I ever heard was the one Linus gave to Charlie Brown when he wanted to know the true meaning of Christmas. It’s from the Bible, Luke 2:8.
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
So let’s all get back to Christmas.
Pat Dutched
Professional Bookkeeper
& Developer of Bookkeeping In A Box for Business and Personal Financial Solutions.
You may contact Pat with questions on Personal or Business Record-Keeping at 419-392-8298