Home for Christmas

The idea of going home for Christmas is probably as old as the formal celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.  Adult children often want to celebrate Christmas at the old family home.  But at which home do the children of these children want to be, their own home or their grandparents' home?

Obviously, children want to feel warm and welcomed.  Often it does not take much to accomplish that.   For family members to feel a deep sense of belonging where they are, the only necessity is to be "present," emotionally and spiritually  for each other.

Decorations, presents, food and excitement are not central to that state of being "Present."  As my adult son said, "Those things are only trappings."  Alll of the frantic time, effort and money expended by so many harried families is certainly not  necessary.

Remember the humble circumstances of Christ's birth.  He was not born at home, but in a makeshift shelter,  a stable on the road trip required by his parents' government.  In 2009 think about what it means to merely be deeply present to those with whom you celebrate.

"Peace be with you," and "with thy spirit."

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