I'm starting this thread so people can add anything they like that they feel encapsulates the true spirit of Christmas.

I was at the school I volunteer at today and I saw many examples, there were bags and bags of food supplies all donated for families identified as struggling, also toys donated for children who won't get many gifts otherwise. The school is in an area in which many families are struggling financially, so these donations will make a huge difference to the Christmas they will have.

I have been focused on my own issues recently and on top of that the pressures of Christmas, I needed to see this today to remind me about the true spirit of the season.

Great thread! Very positive. Donations are wonderful -- it's great to see this happening.

What captures the true meaning of Christmas for me is giving to those less fortunate, giving to those we love, cherishing our loved ones, being grateful for all that we have and forgiveness of wrongdoings and transgressions made against us. This year I donated gifts for needy children and felt good about that. One year I made my family volunteer at a homeless soup kitchen on Christmas day. I would like to do that again.

[Artchic528]

The true meaning of Christmas, of Santa, is not to receive any gifts, but to be generous of heart and spirit and give to those who are both special, or might not have the ability to procure themselves.

Giving, love, kindness, and warmth of the heart.

And the people who truly love
us the most don't care what we give them.
They just want us.

[Unrigged64072835]

It's interesting that in addition to our donations to various charities, I also purchased merchandise from those charities for presents. Some are local and some are far away. I know my family will love them, and it's for a good cause.

[Carmina]

I don't think I can face being alone one more Xmas

Originally Posted by Carmina

I don't think I can face being alone one more Xmas

((( Carmina ))) I don't know what is available where you live but in many areas churches and charities have meals on Christmas day for those who are alone at Christmas to come to. Perhaps there is something near you where you could go or volunteer to help?

If nothing else please log on here, there will always be someone to chat to. I will be here some of the day.

[Travelinglady]

LOVE! (giving of gifts, kindness, along with the true religious component)

[*Laurie*]

Frankly, I have yet to find it. It seems that without fail, every holiday season is nothing but anger and dissension.

[taybaby]

For me, it's family. And to me family isn't just blood relatives it's the people you choose to be your family.

[VernonJenkins]

The Christmas vibe of lights, trees, music and snow brings me joy. So does spending time with family and trading gifts with them.

I can't afford to buy any gifts until the 29th this year but they'll get them.