The True Meaning Of Christmas

By Chris Giacoumakis

Sharing some insight into the gifts 2022 has delivered.

What a year it has been!

As the tinsel begins to weave around banisters, Christmas trees and Christmas lights begin to flash reminding us that the festive season is nigh. The colour and vibrancy are also accompanied by the endless demands of our energy and time; tying loose ends, and doing our best to appease others. The festive season can sadly transform from a time of joviality to one that is all-consuming, which may leave us feeling far more taxed – in every way – hence the urgency to carve out some time to take stock of what is important and what this season truly represents.

2022 has been a whirlwind of a year, and if there is something we can take away from it is that we could all learn to slow down, to turn inward, and to take better care of ourselves. However,  as the end of the year approaches, it is almost inevitable that we will begin to do the opposite. With endless invitations, gifts to buy, packages to send, cards to write, a long list of to-dos to tick off, and last-minute projects to complete, we are often left feeling depleted, drained and lose sight of the important lesson we were gifted with this year.

As caregivers, community leaders, neighbours, and teachers it is important that we instil the true value and meaning of Christmas and model it accordingly. This time of year is about reconnecting with those we have potentially lost touch with, or have forcefully been separated from due to the pandemic and its subsequent restrictions. Perhaps this Christmas, especially in Australia, should be really appreciated more than ever, especially given international travel has resumed – allowing loved ones to reunite and the opportunity to make more memories – allowing us to make up for the time we lost apart!

Perhaps Christmas 2022 will reinforce one particular inalienable truth: experiences are what we etch into our heart and minds as we grow older – they are what we truly learn to hold close and provide a map of our past, present and future. They bridge the gap between generations and can often lead to stronger bonds. So this Christmas, instead of putting more pressure to consume, perhaps we should pause again, ration out our time wisely, and focus more on connecting with those that matter the most. Sharing laughter, good food, banter, and experiences – all which are gifts that will keep on giving and hold the true essence of Christmas.

Whether we believe in the magic of Christmas or not, we can take action to create magic in our own lives, the lives of our loved ones and take a huge dose of gratitude and simplicity into 2022.

We wish you all a joyous, safe, and memorable Christmas, hope to see you in the best of health and spirits in 2023!

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