Merry Christmas
One of my younger children informed my wife and I that he was creating an activity plan for us regarding Christmas as we weren’t very organized last year. That calendar is in trouble as “its days are numbered.” In all reality we can c ome under a lot of pressure during the Christmas season. In looking to create special memories we often ask, “Did we give enough? Will they appreciate what was given?” It can feel a bit overwhelming at times.
In looking at the origins of the Christmas Story, it seems to me it was about the giving of oneself. The birth of Jesus as a gift of hope for mankind. Joseph giving of himself to Mary when culturally he could have easily cast her aside. Mary both gave of herself to Joseph as well as her newborn son in order to fulfill a larger plan.The larger question is this, how can we give of ourselves to our family, our neighbours, and our community? Not begrudgingly or out of duty, but truly giving of ourselves for the greater good.
My wife and I choose to homeschool our children. One of our past facilitators recently retired, and so the board with whom we’re registered assigned a new facilitator to our family. Recently, we had the privilege of meeting with him for our first visit to review learning progress this fall. We were both impressed with his genuine engagement and interest that he gave to our children. He intently listened and carefully reviewed their work, giving encouragement and suggestions on how we can work with each child in their uniqueness.
I came out of the time inspired, not just with regards to our role as educators of our children, but with this question in my mind. If I could emulate something of what I experienced with our facilitator in taking a genuine interest in the lives of other people, how would that positively impact those around me? We have opportunities for meaningful relationship all around us. During this Christmas, we can learn to see these opportunities, perhaps taking the moment to fully engage the lives of those we intersect every day.
Please look at the many opportunities highlighted in this edition as well as the online calendar to see how you can participate in your community this holiday season.
A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from our home to yours!
Lowell Harder
