Christmas Spirit

Back in early October or perhaps it was September, two friends and I were enjoying lattes at Starbucks when the store soundtrack started pumping out Christmas tunes. A bit odd to start the Christmas season so early. It’s been hard to get into the holiday spirit this year. I saw wonderful trees and décor in Hong Kong, got to listen to Christmas tunes while walking the aisles of Vanguard, and have seen countless pictures of Santa adorning the walls and windows of restaurants, yet most of the décor I see says “Merry X-mas”. While it’s great to be surrounded by the festive spirit at Starbucks and to bundle up in a warm jacket, scarf and mittens, I find myself missing the celebration of deeper meanings. May we all be like Mary and treasure this gift in our hearts.