I find it so interesting to read about the various ways that the Christmas season is celebrated around the world – and love how varied the celebrations are.

So many traditions are – of course – woven into the fabric of the culture – often based on historical characters – and myths – passed down from one generation to the other.

Yet – there seems to be a common theme – that draws families – and communities together – with the showing of love – and the sharing of gifts.

As this quote puts it – “Our many different cultures notwithstanding – there’s something about the holidays that make the planet communal. Even nations that do not celebrate Christmas – can ‘t help but be caught up in the collective spirit of their neighbours – as twinkling lights dot the landscape – and carols fill the air. It’s an inspiring time of the year”

I love how there is just something about this time of the year that gets celebrated – almost making the planet – ‘communal’ – as though – “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world – and behold – everything is softer – and more beautiful”.

A large part of the magic of Christmas is to do with the traditions that we have – in our families – and often in our communities’.

“Traditions foster a sense of belonging – and togetherness – making your celebrations distinct – and a reflection of who you are as a family” – and I loved those unique ways in which our family celebrated.

But – inevitably – some of the traditions that I was brought up with as a child have changed over the years – as new ones were created for my own family – reflecting who we were as a new family unit – and bringing together the traditions that the two of us brought with us.

The traditions that my parents created – reflected who they were – incorporating some of the traditions from their own families too – and I loved hearing how these traditions came about – and as we added to – and changed some of the ways we celebrated – we passed them on to our own children.

But of course – even though some traditions remain – others continue to change – as life changes for us – we adapt – letting go of some things – while making room for new ones.

I like what someone says here – “There is no ideal Christmas – only the one Christmas you decide to make – as a reflection of your values – desires – affections – and traditions”.

The reality is that our values and desires can change over time – mine certainly have – and the Christmas that I celebrate – is in some ways – different from the Christmases of my childhood.

But what I do love – is that the very essence – and spirit – of Christmas never changes – however we may choose to celebrate – it is always a special time – of love – of family – and of friends – for that’s what Christmas is – “a day of meaning and traditions – a special day – spent in the warm circle of family and friends”.

Blessings – Lois