Giving creates Christmas miracles

Although people of diverse faiths celebrate the Christmas season in different ways, I have discovered that most of these celebrations have one thing in common.

There are those who believe that Christmas is about Santa Claus. This plump, jolly man spends Christmas Eve delivering Christmas gifts to those children who have been good throughout the year. For those who believe in Santa Claus Christmas holds many magical miracles.

On the flip side, some people prefer to celebrate Christmas, not as a holiday centered around Santa Claus and his elves, but rather centered on the gift that God gave to the world so long ago. Those who celebrate the birth of Christ believe that Jesus was sent to earth to give an everlasting gift -- forgiveness from sin and eternal life in Heaven with God. Also, in following the tradition of the Wisemen, who brought gifts to Jesus, gifts are given to family members and friends. This story also holds a magical miracle for all who believe in God and accept His gift of salvation.

The other day as I was driving, I found my mind beginning to wander. I began to think about how wonderful Christmas time is. It seems to me that at Christmas time, people are extremely giving. This is when I discovered that those who believe in Santa Claus in addition to those who believe in the birth of Christ all celebrate Christmas by giving. Not only do people give to those close to them, but they also give to those in need. It is also a time for people to give to those far from home such as missionaries and soldiers who are fighting overseas. People find Christmas miracles in giving and receiving those gifts.

It is my opinion that Christmas is indeed a magical time. It is magical because of the treasures in the hearts of mankind which allow giving to take place. When one person gives to another, the receiver births a desire to give to someone else. It becomes a cycle of giving and receiving that makes hearts grown fonder and has been to known to make impossible things happen.

Whether you believe in Santa Claus, the birth of Christ or a combination of the two, I hope that you will remember to give to those around you this holiday season. It is in the giving that we receive wonderful miracles and blessings in return.

Though I know that there are more Christmas traditions other than these two that I have mentioned, I do not have the time or the knowledge to write about all of them. It is not my intention to offend anyone who may possess a different belief. If you do have different Christmas traditions, I would really enjoy hearing about them. However, I am sure that in every tradition, giving can be found.