Every year at Christmas, we have a tradition of putting up a wish tree in front of our house. This tree is not your typical Christmas tree, but rather a simple, eco-friendly tree adorned with garlands and lights. The most special part of this tree is that children are the ones who decorate it, hanging objects they have made themselves, each representing a wish. This wish tree becomes a powerful symbol of our deepest desires for peace, joy, and well-being not just in our own lives, but in the lives of others as well.
However, as the holiday season unfolds, many of these wishes remain unfulfilled or fall short of the societal standards of happiness that are often imposed on us. The pressure to be surrounded by loved ones, enjoy lavish feasts, and maintain perfect relationships can sometimes lead to feelings of frustration and anxiety for those who do not fit into this mold. It begs the question – why does a holiday meant to celebrate the birth of Jesus bring about so much unrest?
It was during this reflection that I realized perhaps the true focus of Christmas has been lost. I thought back to the manger, to the shepherds who came to pay homage to Baby Jesus and brought gifts. They didn’t just bring material gifts, but along their journey, they also practiced gratitude. And that’s when it hit me – what if instead of fixating on our unfulfilled desires, we shifted our focus to the path of gratitude?
Gratitude is about acknowledging and appreciating what we have and who we are, rather than dwelling on what we lack. It’s about being thankful not just for our own blessings, but also for the goodness that exists in others, even in those we may perceive as adversaries. In embracing gratitude, we not only bridge divides but also actively participate in the goodness of others. This, I believe, is the essence of Christmas – a time for gratitude, not just wishful thinking.
So this Christmas, instead of just wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, I have decided to create a gratitude tree. Following the footsteps of the shepherds, I will embark on a journey of gratitude during this festive season. Each day, for the next 12 days of Christmas, I will share a gratitude reflection that highlights the lessons life has taught me and the blessings I have received.
- Thank you for my Parkinson’s, which has shown me the power of humility and the kindness of those who care for me.
- Thank you for the solitude this Christmas, as it has opened my eyes to the value of human connection and companionship.
- Thank you for growing older, allowing me to appreciate the simple joys of retirement and basking in the sunlight.
- Thank you for the family and friends who share their joy and celebrations with us.
- Thank you for the festive sounds that remind us of the vibrancy of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
- Thank you to the mothers of soldiers, for their resilience and ability to turn pain into compassion.
- Thank you to all mothers, for their unwavering love and support.
- Thank you for the holiday treats we will indulge in during this season.
- Thank you for the innocence of children, who inspire us with their curiosity and faith.
- Thank you for the Christmas spirit, prompting us to reflect on the divine purpose of humanity.
- Thank you for Jesus, whose unconditional love and forgiveness inspire us to be better.
- Thank you for life’s challenges, which remind us of our eternal longing for spiritual fulfillment.
This Christmas, let us trade our unfulfilled desires for genuine gratitude. Let us not only appreciate what we have but also the beauty of imperfection and the true essence of love, faith, and gratitude. May this holiday season be a celebration of the path of gratitude, transforming not only our lives but also those of the people around us.
May this Christmas be a time to give thanks and share that gratitude with others, spreading joy and positivity wherever we go.
