Yep, I did spell that correctly. During this time of year, there is a feeling like no other time. We are kinder, more compassionate, more welcoming, more giving. For a people in the land of Minnesota Nice, that really says something. It doesn’t matter if we follow Christianity or another religion, as a community, we embrace the culture of Christmas wholeheartedly.

I don’t receive Christmas gifts from my family. A number of years ago, Pastor Paula Mehmel and I took on a project that changed my perspective of Christmas presents (yes, spelled correctly). I won’t go into the story here (ask me sometime though), but it involved a problem during Christmas. Paula and I found a way to connect the community to help, and our amazing community rose to the occasion. During that time, I met a number of people in need of basics, and it didn’t feel right to get presents when I already was so blessed. I asked my family to do things for others instead. I believe it’s been about 10 years, and we continue to do that. Best gift ever.

This month embrace Christmas “presence” as you make your decisions about Christmas “presents”. Buy bus tokens for our Homeless Shelters, anonymously buy coffee for our Firefighters, Police or other people in uniform at a local coffee shop, buy a book at Barnes and Noble’s book donation, give money to your schools to scholarship kids that can’t afford field trip fees, make an edible gift for someone that is having a tough time as they miss a loved one. Believe me, it’s the best gift of all. Happy Holidays to you and your family.