The True Joy of Christmas

by Raymund Tamayo

Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year. 

As a child, it was a season of magic—a time when the world seemed to sparkle a little brighter. 

I remember the warm glow of fairy lights twinkling on the tree, the scent of freshly home-cooked meals from the kitchen, and the sound of Christmas songs filling the air. My mom always made sure we experienced them.

There was an unspoken joy, a purity to it all that felt almost otherworldly. 

Back then, Christmas was a celebration of togetherness, a time when our family would gather, laugh, and share stories deep into the night. 

Those moments were my treasure, etched forever in my heart.

Welcome to the Real World

But as I’ve grown older, the magic of Christmas felt harder to grasp. 

The responsibilities of adulthood weigh heavily on my shoulders—bills to pay, deadlines to meet, and relationships to nurture. 

The once-vivid sparkle of the season has dimmed, replaced by the hustle and stress that often accompany this time of year. 

I struggle to feel the same joy I did as a child, and it breaks my heart. There are moments when I catch myself longing for those simpler days when the world felt smaller and kinder.

The Real Reason for the Season

Yet, even amid this struggle, I’m reminded of something profound—the real reason for the season. 

Christmas isn’t about the lights, the gifts, or the perfect family gatherings. It’s about celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It’s about the immeasurable love of God, who sent His only Son into the world to save us. 

When I reflect on this, the weight of my burdens begins to lift.

The story of Jesus’ birth fills me with hope. 

Born in a humble manger, surrounded by simplicity, His arrival was a testament to God’s grace and mercy. 

Through Him, we have salvation, a promise that transcends the temporary struggles of this world. 

In the quiet moments of prayer and reflection, I find a peace that no material gift could ever provide.

So this Christmas, I’m choosing to set aside my worries and focus on what truly matters. 

I’ll hold on to my childhood memories, but I’ll also embrace the deeper joy of knowing Christ—the reason for the season. 

In Him, I rediscover the wonder of Christmas and the promise of a love that never fades.