This Christmas was, without a doubt, the best Christmas I can remember since I was little and still believed in Santa. I would never have believed it, if someone had told me a few years ago, that I would enjoy watching someone else open presents more than I enjoy opening my own, but it's true. This year watching my nephew, Cooper, tear the paper off his gifts and trying out all his new goodies was way better than opening mine. Not that I didn't get great presents because I did. I have very thoughtful friends and a generous family. I loved my gifts, but sitting back watching Cooper with his took me right back to when I was about six years old. I guess, as we get older, Christmas tends to lose some of its luster. We get too bogged down in all the things we have to do and forget to enjoy the meaning of Christmas. This year with Cooper brought all of that magic back. There were a couple of times I actually got a little lump in my throat. To watch his eyes glow with each new toy he opened. My Christmas spirit is renewed.
So, Christmas has come and gone, but I will leave this Christmas season behind with a new understanding of the season. I use this quote a lot, but it just fits so many situations, especially as we get a little older: "In youth we learn; in age we understand" (Marie Von Ebner-Eschenbach). The truth of that statement becomes more and more apparent with every day that passes and this Christmas season was no different. I have always known the meaning of Christmas, but this year I could actually feel it. The love of family and friends is one of, if not the greatest gifts we could ever receive.
I hope everyone had as blessed a Christmas as I did. Another year is upon us; more lessons to learn, more memories to make. Have a happy and safe New Year.