(A picture of me in Santa Claus attire 2016)
We all have one or two memories that we could think of whenever Christmas season comes. For me, one of my memories goes back about nine years ago, not long after I finished high school. My principal reached out to me and asked me to come and act as Father Christmas (Santa Claus) for the younger children in our school. I saw it as something fun and interesting to do. I went to the school, put on the Father Christmas attire, and prepared myself for the day.
The moment I stepped out of the car, the little pupils from the early years, nursery, and primary classes shouted in excitement. Like the whole surrounding was fill with excitement. Their faces was full or joy and I could feel the joy in the atmosphere. Two of my colleagues also dressed as telly tubbies dresses and danced around, cheering the pupils and making the moment to be fun. We went to our seats, and later, I was called forward to give a brief speech about Christmas. I asked the children a few questions and shared gifts with them. The excitement on their faces and the happiness in the environment made the whole experience memorable. At the end, everyone pupils wanted to take pictures with Father Christmas, and I left that day feeling like I had been part of something special.
Now growing older, I began to understand Christmas and the various misconceptions that many people usually have about the season. As a child, it was easy to see it only as a time for gifts, fun, decorations and the eating. But over time, I came to realise that many people misunderstand the real purpose of Christmas. Some see it mainly as a season for spending money, travelling, eating, and celebrating as the case may be. Others believe Christmas is incomplete if there is no loud event or parting or expensive celebration. These ideas have become so common that the original meaning of the season is sometimes pushed aside.
The main purpose of Christmas is to remember the birth of Jesus Christ. His birth represents love, hope, humility, and sacrifice. Jesus Christ as a king and mighty He was did not come into the world in a palace or with great display. He was born in a simple place no one could expect a king will be born. That's humility. The love does not need to be surrounded by wealth before it is genuine. Christmas is a call to show kindness and to reflect on the values that give life meaning.
However, many people focus only on the outward parts of the season. Some believe Christmas is all about spending money and buying the most expensive things. Some get stressed up trying to impress others or comparing what they have with what others have. Most people think that celebration must always be excessive before it becomes meaningful because I've seen how a lot of people behave once is Christmas season. These ideas take attention away from what the season really stands for. Christmas is not a competition, it is a reminder to share love and show gratitude.
As we celebrate, it is important to maintain balance in everything we do. Yes we eat and drink, we celebrate, we party. That's not bad but then If someone decides to drink, it should be done moderately not to the point of losing control or getting drunk. If someone wants to eat, it should be moderately. I remember visit different houses during one of the Christmas celebration and eat anything they offered. By the end of that day, I had stomach pain and was literally throwing out everything I ate that day. So let eat moderately, party moderately.
Christmas is meant to be enjoyed, not turned into an experience that leads to regret. It is also important to be content with whatever we have for the season. Not everyone will have the same type of celebration, and that is perfectly fine. What matters most is the peace in your heart and the joy you share with the people around you. Christmas becomes meaningful when we understand its purpose, avoid unnecessary pressure, and appreciate the simple blessings we have. That is what I think is the true reason behind the season.
Wish you happy Christmas Celebration in Advance...