It’s Christmas break and I’m actually excited about Christmas this year. If you were asking, “Why wouldn’t you be excited about Christmas every year?” Well, let’s just say I had a rough background growing up that didn’t really nurture good feelings towards the holidays. A big part of my transformation for newfound Christmas appreciation is my friends and family.
My wife and I spend Christmas with her side of the family each year. My first “real” Christmas experience was 2008. After experiencing something like that for the first time in my life my first thought was, “Wow! White people really do have it good.” So the past two years, I didn’t really feel actively involved- not because my new family didn’t make that effort, but rather, it was I trying to get use to the idea of actually having a family tradition.
This year, however, I’ve already started my Christmas shopping and found some great gifts. Considering how much of a tightwad I am, when was the last time I actually got excited about spending money that wasn’t on food or Laker season tickets? Even after a few years I’m still learning how to be a part of a family. The process doesn’t bother me. Actually, it gives me a blueprint on how to start my own tradition when Katie and I start having kids ourselves (whenever that may be).
Look at that. It’s been three paragraphs and I haven’t even talked about the end of the NBA lockout, which, coincidently, will bring the beginning of the season on CHRISTMAS DAY!!!
Back to “White people have it good.” I realize that not all people look forward to the holidays because they realize, “Oh man, I have to spend time with family members I don’t like.” The holidays can be stressful for a number of reasons but I think that tops the list (my 2nd reason why the holidays are stressful is that pumpkin spice sucks). Who wants to spend their time off with family members they don’t particularly like? If I had to spend time with my psychopathic older sister it would send chills down my spine. So I get it. But is it possible to learn how to appreciate these times? If I did, I say yes.
Growing up within a fragmented family and trying to find my own way without much guidance or adult supervision was psychologically damaging. It took years for the Lord to heal the issues that bore from the whole experience and I probably still have more issues I’m completely unaware of. Whatever issues you may have within your own family, I encourage you to deal with them in a God-glorifying manner. Learn how to be an active member of the family. It’ll look different for everyone. But my excitement this year is both handing out gifts and giving the family devotion (which I’ll post here on Christmas morning). I think I’ll even use the Bible.
In any case, I hope and pray that the holidays will be a blessing for everyone and not just something to get over or simply punching in a timecard waiting to punch out. There are many wonderful theological implications for this season and it would be a waste to not see that during this time. I don’t want to give too much away from my devotion but I think you get the point. Even if your family is a nightmare, keep in mind at least the NBA is back.
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