Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of money but we had something even more valuable. We had a lot of love and that’s what I want to pass on to my daughter this Christmas season. She’s now at the age where she is aware of the holidays and instead of focusing on the many gifts she will undoubtedly receive, I want her to remember all the special moments that we shared as a family. Moments filled with love and magic.
The Gift Of Not Giving A Thing
Right now, my daughter’s world is truly magical. It’s full of good people, bright colours, and fun times. She sees the good in the world even on the worst days and even when I’m unable to. She has no concept of evil or suffering or sadness. People don’t hurt one another. There are no bullies yet and no one makes fun of you for not having the latest toy or not speaking with the right accent. There are no boundaries that divide us in her world.
One day, she will get older and come to see things differently but for right now, I want to keep this magic alive as long as possible. The holiday season is a great reminder of what’s really important. It’s not the things that are important but the people you share them with. Looking back I don’t remember the many toys that I’m sure were on my list as a child but I do remember the memories made with my family. We didn’t have elaborate holiday decorations so instead, we spent time together threading popcorn to hang from our tree. Hours spent together, laughing and just enjoying the holiday spirit. That stands out much more than any toy I ever received.
Somewhere along the way as we grow up, we forget what really matters. We start to care more about what we receive under the tree than the time spent around it. Time spent in each other’s company having fun together. My daughter doesn’t need another toy in her already overflowing toy box, she would much rather mommy and daddy just spend time playing with her. Maybe even have another tea party or dance our own version of Gangnam style. As far as she’s concerned, love and imagination are all you need in life. The truth is, she’s not all that wrong but we adults tend to overlook that. It takes children to really bring the meaning of Christmas back to life.
Thinking back, the best Christmas memories for me are the ones where we were all together and really present in the moment. Baking our favourite holiday treats without worrying about calorie intake, watching classic Christmas movies with my cousins, playing board games long into the early mornings. That’s what I want for my daughter this holiday season. A little bit of that Christmas magic that will create cherished memories to last a lifetime.
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