Notes by La'Rue

Now that Thanksgiving is over, I know many people have the most important day/holiday (at least for me) on their minds. Honestly, it’s been on my radar for months now. In fact, I put up my Christmas decorations weeks ago. I’m sure many have considered it to be a bit “too early,” but does one feel the same when they celebrate their birthday days or weeks in advance? Needless to say, I know many people are already struggling to think of what to get their kids, family, friends, or significant other, a well as how they’re going to afford it. Christmas shopping used to not only cause my unnecessary stress and debt, but it made my Christmas somewhat blue. I’ve always loved my family, but it made me feel bad and guilty even, when I couldn’t afford to buy them gifts.

That’s one of the primary reasons why I stopped gift giving, not to mention, it’s not what Christmas is really about. I guess you could say that it is, considering Jesus is the greatest gift we’ve been given. I’m sure everyone you ask will probably tell you they love receiving and gifts, but nothing is more upsetting when you can’t give one in return. Or if you do and the person doesn’t like it, let alone appreciates it. Nevertheless, if you have your mental and physical health, family, and friends, you have all that you need. Christmas is not meant to be gloomy, when the One we’re celebrating (at least some of us) has brought us such much light. Don’t let what you can’t financially do stop what you can do, and that’s to be of love, joy, and good cheer!

La’Rue