4 steps to being happy at Christmas

Learn the true meaning of Christmas

Christmas can mean many different things to people. Perhaps, for some it only means a family get-together, or a special celebration involving family members. Perhaps it is a time for friends and parties. Maybe it focuses on Santa Claus or on the Christmas story. There is no such thing as a wrong reason to celebrate Christmas, but there is a higher meaning and signification.

Put Christ back into Christmas

The true meaning of Christmas is centered around the birth, life, crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. Putting Christ back into Christmas reveals its true significance. Perhaps the simplest way to learn about Jesus is to begin with the story of His birth. The original version of His birth is in the Bible. There are also many children's books that tell about the Christmas miracle. Reading this account to children, or to the elderly may help put Christ back into their Christmas and bring new joy into their Christmas celebration.  

Focus on love as your central theme for Christmas

Christmas reveals the ultimate gift of God's love. God gave His Son, Jesus, to us and in turn, we give gifts to others as we celebrate Christmas. It is in giving that we receive. Happiness is just one of the gifts that we receive at Christmas time when we give gifts to others. It is not the actual give that we give, but rather the spirit of giving that accompanies the giving of the gift. Gifts can be many different, sizes shapes and colors. They can mean different things to different people. Giving an appropriate gift is always important too.      

Begin to exchange gifts with others

Everyone has a gift of one kind or another that he or she can give to others. The giving of gifts brings happiness to others, but also to us. In other words, making others happy makes us happy too. Perhaps the gift that is given is as simple as a plate of cookies or fudge. Maybe the gift is that of helping a neighbor who is in need, with a special Christmas hamper. Perhaps it involves knitting a scarf or a pair of mittens for someone. Maybe there is a driveway to shovel or some salt needed on a sidewalk. A neighbor or friend may require help to decorate a Christmas tree. Share the joy of Christmas with others and you will be happy too.