reflecting on Christmas

Today I invited my Japanese neighbor over to make bread. I have really enjoyed getting to know her over the past two and a half years. She is adorable and funny and very kind.

While she was here, we had an interesting conversation about Christmas. She is native Japanese, so I asked her about Christmas in Japan. She explained that they celebrated Christmas, but of course, it wasn't about the birth of Jesus, it was mostly about Santa Claus. I also picked up over different conversations recently, on the impression that they only get their children one gift. I wanted to know for sure, so I just came out and asked her. She confirmed that yes, they only do one gift. That is how she was raised in Japan. They only got one gift, and gifts were for children only, not for the adults. So, she is still getting accustomed to how Christmas is over here in the US and her husband, who is American has also had to adjust to only getting one present, as he was raised the complete opposite of that.

I have to admit, it made me feel a little silly and embarrassed as she stood there in my living room near our Christmas tree that has presents spread out all over around and under it (and I have always tried to keep Christmas fairly minimal). But it has really given me a lot to think about.

Each year I almost ALWAYS have an inner struggle when it comes to the idea of buying Christmas presents. I don't want to go crazy, but then at the last minute I always worry that I haven't done enough. And it's just plain silly. Of course I have done enough. I have done more than enough, as is evidence by our spread under our tree.

It makes me feel frustrated to be honest. I truly hate how Christmas has become so focused on the presents. If you are honest with yourself, you know that is true. Not for everyone out there, I know, but for the majority- I would be willing to say that it is a bigger focus than we even realize. Even amongst those of us who are Christian and know what the true celebration is all about.

I don't like it, but I wonder if I would be willing to let myself be different. I hope so. I know I definitely want to try. Next year will be the start, obviously. I want to challenge my little family to see if we will be willing to give each other only one gift. That's it. Could be interesting....