Christmas is big business with the fantasy of Santa Claus and the swapping of a gift for a gift. Despite economic woes, retailers and merchants go to great lengths to lure shoppers with lower than low discounts, igniting the hustle and bustle that will have many people shopping until they drop and up to the hour on Christmas Eve.

There is nothing wrong with fantasies and giving as long as the true meaning of Christmas is not lost. Remembering as a child, before racing to see what Santa brought me for Christmas, my parents made it a “must” that my siblings and I said a prayer of thanks to almighty God for our gifts before we found out what gifts were awaiting us.

December 25th is the day set aside to celebrate and honor the birth of Jesus the Christ - a gift of love to all. In the spirit of Christmas, let’s reflect on the priceless gift of life before we begin to unwrap the gifts under the tree. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

Merry Christmas!