When it comes to Christmas, we always think of the twinkling Christmas trees, stockings stuffed with gifts, and the looping "Jingle Bells" in shopping malls first. But beneath the bustling surface, this festival actually conceals a more precious significance, which is worth our heartfelt appreciation.
The original meaning of Christmas was "reunion and sharing". On a cold winter day, people put aside their busy work and return to their families, sitting around the fireplace to share the stories of the past year. Even a simple meal becomes particularly warm because of each other's company. Nowadays, many people are accustomed to using gifts instead of companionship, but they forget that what family members need most is actually face-to-face communication. This Christmas, why not turn off your phone, make dumplings with your family and watch an old movie together, and let reunion return to its essence?
Christmas is also a day for "passing on kindness". When we see a little girl selling matches on the street, we can't help but offer a helping hand. When seeing the elderly neighbors celebrating the festival alone, I would take the initiative to invite them to my home as guests. Last Christmas, I organized a "second-hand exchange" event in my community. Everyone donated their idle books and toys and gave them to those in need. When I saw the smiles on the children's faces when they received the gifts, I finally understood that the transmission of kindness is more valuable than any gift.
Besides, Christmas also reminds us to "cherish the present". The year is coming to an end. We may feel regretful for the unaccomplished goals and sad for the passing time. But Christmas is like a gentle embrace, telling us: As long as there are people of love around us and expectations in our hearts, every day is worth cherishing.
This Christmas, may we all break free from the trap of "consumerism", not be held hostage by the prices of gifts, not be carried away by the sense of ceremony of the festival, but rather feel the warmth of reunion with our hearts, pass on small acts of kindness, and cherish the happiness at hand. After all, the true meaning of festivals has never been in material things, but in our hearts.
