Adventures in gift giving and receiving

Christmas time just seems to get crazier every year. More parties, more events, more school projects, more everything. I'm trying to keep the focus on the real reason for Christmas, as opposed to the Santa-fication of the holiday. Sadly, it's hard to do. Everywhere children are bombarded with images of Santa, asked about their "lists" and primed to expect gifts. This situation is breeding greed in our children.

As a society, we seem to have fostered a reality where gift-giving and receiving is no longer appreciated, but expected. How can a child be truly grateful, when they receive so much? Instead they are overwhelmed and have trouble processing the generosity that has been bestowed on them. Why can't we turn around and give to those who are truly in need - of water, of food, of clothing, of shelter? Our lives are so rich, so full of everything we need. It is time to start sharing some of our prosperity. Think of what it would be like this Christmas without your home, your bed, safe water to drink or sufficient food to eat. If we all just gave one gift to a child who truly has nothing this year, what a difference that would make.

http://www2.worldvision.ca/gifts/app?mc=3221603