“Sure Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about.”

That line gets me every time. And then Linus goes up onto the stage with his blue blanket and tells the Christmas story. It’s adorable. And it’s beautiful. That movie has so much more meaning now than it ever has. With all of the commercialism in the world and the ridiculous over-the-top aspects of Christmas in today’s world, it’s easy to forget what the holiday season is really about. 

If you’re a Christian and you celebrate Christmas, you hear every year in church how you can’t forget about the true meaning of Christmas. So you go home, refresh your heart and mind, then what? It’s not the action; it’s the thoughts and feelings that really matter. If you remember in your heart that Jesus is the reason for the season, the actions will follow. 

And if you’re not Christian? Maybe you celebrate Hanukkah. Growing up with a Jewish father, I know all about how Hanukkah is the most pointless holiday, but it has a meaning nonetheless. God protected the people, and kept the oil burning for 8 days and nights when it should have lasted for 2. He delivered the Jewish people. Keep that in mind when you’re indulging in fried potato pancakes and all of the other goodies.

And if you’re not religious at all? You probably exchange gifts in your family anyway, and for that reason, it is still incredibly easy to get caught up in the shiny wrapping paper and last-minute Christmas shopping sales. And not matter what religion you are, or if you’re not religious at all, it’s important to keep in mind things like love, peace, gratitude, forgiveness, the importance of family, and the joy and magic that comes with the season that seems to fade with age. Remember and be grateful for everything you’ve been given over the past year.

So the next time you’re watching A Charlie Brown Christmas, think about what Linus is saying. Really listen, and maybe you’ll think about the holidays a little differently.

Guest Post By:

-Melissa L.