[ this thing we call advent ]

   what is advent, really?

   it's common here in denmark to have four candles and light them according to the sundays of the month. [the first candle on the first sunday, then two on the second, and so forth.] i believe this is also fairly common in the states.

   advent. the time of preparation, of expectation, of waiting.

   it's also often a time of extreme stress, pressure for buying gifts, and a total lapse in mental and financial reasoning for many. ultimately, there end up being a lot of crazies running around the malls and in public areas around this time.


   i think i'll pass on that..

   i was just discussing christmas traditions with some of my friends last night, and we were talking about what a shame it is that all the hype and preparation for christmas is all for one morning, and then it's over. whereas, here in denmark, it's a full 2-3 days of celebration -- of family, good food, and just enjoying the time. instead of ripping open the presents, and you sit there wondering why you even bothered to wrap it.

   of course this whole season can be completely different when it comes down to the reason of why.

   for me, it's a time of reflection, of appreciating and rejoicing in the fact that Jesus gave up his seat in heaven and came down to be born as a human and begin a life of serving. and in end, saving our lives.

   it's a time of enjoying family, of appreciating friends. it's for realizing the things you have around you. of being able to bless those close to you with a gift and anticipate the moment when they open it. [i get so excited when i watch people open their gifts. ohhhh it's so worth it.]

[ simply because snow is magical. ]
Miss Kayla Photography | 2012

  
   long story short, christmas is simply not and should not be about buying presents for everyone. it should not be about getting the most presents. it should definitely not be about being stressed and having to have everything perfect.

   i hate that americans are so concentrated on the frenzied commercialism. and all for one day, or half a day even. so sad. and so empty.

   regardless if you believe Jesus was born and regardless if you believe this was the greatest gift to man -- there is still so much more that should be enjoyed and taken in from christmas.

   don't let the christmas craze take you. don't give into the shallow nothing that people make it out to be. santa doesn't exist. don't even get me started on that one.

   take a deep breath.

   relax.

   open your eyes to the things you have around you. and actually appreciate it. be reasonable. it's not about the gifts.

   it's about what you have already.