As he talked he brought up Christmas, planning and then talking about Christmases past. His girlfriend is the daughter of two doctors. Her world and our world are different. I would imagine, at another time in history, she would not have been allowed to date my child – being from different economic worlds. But they have now dated over 2 years, and from my perspective, the only issues that have arisen from the financial differences is the sometimes flack Demolition D has given me.
As he was talking, though, he said, “The way they do Christmas and the way we do is so different.”
I responded with an, “oh?”
Demo D, “yes, they are really different, but you know, I like our way better…”
Me, “and why is that” (I don’t make my questions too very long)
Demo D, “well they get ALL these presents, like 20 from her mom, then 20 from her dad, and then the grandparents (20 is probably a little of an embellishment). It is all about the presents. We get presents and all, but there is more to our Christmas then that. Their’s is so material.”
Me, “you really think so?”
We went on talking about gift giving and some of the issues that arise and ways to simplify and yet be thoughtful, when he again brought up last Christmas, “like last year when Carrots (fake name) asked what I wanted for Christmas. I didn’t really want anything, and some of what I would have liked was not the type of stuff you ask other people for.”
“So I told her just make me something. Just do something creative. Her and Peas (fake name, and Carrots son ;)) made that Star ornament for me. I have it still hanging on my bulletin board. I think it was one of the best Christmas presents I got last year. I don’t think I will ever get rid of that gift.”
So as I had been reading about Advent traditions, and wondering what traditions we could add to add back that magical feel of Christmas, I was given an early Christmas gift. It seems maybe I didn’t miss the mark after all…
When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
Matthew 2:9
(not my image...)
Enjoy more stories, recipes, traditions...more Advent at Kerry's Nativity Carnival (and link up your traditions too!)
5 comments:
Lailani, this is a beautiful post. It is good when we realize the true meaning of Christmas if Christ and not all those presents. Your son knows the real reason for Christmas.
I did the same thing with our sons. We gave some of their toys to the Salvation Army, and helped those in need. Living outside of self is what it's about.
Very good post.
Hey when I write you comments - they all come back to me - I must have some wrong information there. sandie
Lovely thoughts, on what really matters...and a reminder that our children are absorbing all that they experience in our homes, even if they don't always let us know it!
Pax Christi
-Michelle
I love homemade gifts! And I enjoyed this post. :) Thanks for participating in the Nativity Carnival!
How beautiful! I bet it makes your heart swell with pride that he truly gets it. So many go about their lives never getting the real picture. Yet he, who could so easily be swayed with peers and society marketing.....really understands what his heart is telling him.
You are amazing! He is that way because of your tenderness and open heart.
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