The season of well wishes and comfort of the faithful inspires growth and renewal as we expand ourselves spiritually and our hearts we grow and flow. In this joyous season we are more mindful of what family means to us and that the intrinsic value of those relationships is an incomparable contribution to our lives. The African American community is caught in a cross fire between materialism and giving to their communities. The precursor of what must take place in order for us not to destroy the season of oneness and collective rejoicing in the African community lies in understanding the profoundness of love and sharing in a meaningful way.
When one looks at the barren landscape of the economy, unemployment and pernicious politicians what we see serves as a reminder of what the season may not have afforded you and me. The cold spells are a barometer that indicate this is the time for us to delve beneath the surface and retrieve the joys and the jewels that we don on trees and loved ones, and for a moment believe that reindeer really can fly and those living their lives in despair, can seek recourse from personal tragedy by holding on to hope and love. So here we find ourselves looking for the gift inside this gift that is not obscured by glitzy wrapping and pretty colored bows. And then there is the gift inside of you. If you look very hard and deep down inside you can realize and reap wealth from your personal gifts of self-love, self-preservation and self-respect.
Others will make requests from you and they will desire material trinkets as proof of your appreciation. They may even want you to feel obligated to deliver and inadequate if you don’t. But know that that thinking is in direct contradiction to the true meaning of Christmas. Know that the gift that you bring to the day is to make it better so that others can warm themselves in your kindness and respect for the truth that you offer every day. So as the snow falls from the sky and as the questions arise about the gifts you’ll give, remind the misinformed and the misguided that your expressions of caring are bigger than the material items that can be purchased in stores. And give yourself the gift of warm memories, wrap yourself in the coziness of heartfelt caring and find solace in the lyrics to “Silent Night” as you trudge through the snow. Bask in the feeling of how it felt to be held by your mother, and coddled by your grandparents and remember why they treated you tenderly — because they loved you. It is here that you will find the true meaning of the season.
The meaning of the season is that you are the gift, and when you share your presence and precious words about faith and family, love and learning, and when you demonstrate your dedication to those you love by giving of yourself and telling your story. Tell them of how people helped you and tell them of how you in turn helped others. Tell them how you turned those you encountered around with kindness, and how you replaced the worries on their faces with the special graces of God’s love. And let them know that it is you coming through and representing the gifts that God gives us all.
Forever know that you are the gift this season and every day, so that people remember you and smile because you have been there for those in despair. So when they’re making a list and checking it twice, make sure they place value on the non-store bought gifts and come to a true assessment of what actually has worth. Show the young ones by example that the beauty of the season is in showing loved ones that they value them and that their dreams can come true with faith and belief in God and goodness.
Peace. –Munson Steed
