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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Christmas (04/25/05)
My first Christmas in Guatemala I missed Christmas music in English more than anything else. I left to come here in July and didn’t think of bringing my Christmas CD’s with me. It didn’t really seem like Christmas until I got back to Illinois because there was no snow here, it wasn’t cold and I wasn’t with my family. The Christmas decorations just seemed tacky since some were behind razor wire or fences. I thought later, “Is this what Christmas is all about? Snow, music and decorations.” None of these things have anything to do with the true meaning of Christmas. I realized that most of the things I associate with Christmas have nothing to do with Christmas but with culture. It finally felt like Christmas when I got back to Illinois and could listen to Christmas music in English, there was even a little snow. I went ice skating, went Christmas shopping, ate Christmas cookies while listening to my favorite Christmas CD’s and went to Christmas parties. I was also with my family once again. All these things still had nothing to do with the true meaning of Christmas though. I went to the candlelight service at church on Christmas Eve and the Pastor read, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you.” (Luke 2:11, NIV) Then I remembered the real reason for Christmas. I have been a Christian all my life and knew the reason for Christmas but it’s easy to get caught up in other things and associate them with Christmas. I’m glad for the reminder. I now think back on that Christmas and it’s one of my favorites because it’s when I remembered the true meaning of Christmas.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
donna robinson
05/03/05
I think we forget that we take Christmas with us and this story reminded us that it sometimes requires taking all the physical evidence away to get back to the real meaning.
Pekola Roberts
05/03/05
Good easy read. Being in the military, I can really relate to this story line. Being away from familiar surroundings assists in our appreciation of all that we have. The flow and transitions are good. Keep writing and I will keep reading. P.K.
Phyllis Inniss 
05/06/05
Christmas can be a lonely time away from home, missing family and friends. But it took that break away from all that you hold dear to make you appreciate the true meaning of Xmas. Thanks for sharing.