I promised myself I wouldnt do it, but I did. I went to the mall on Black Friday. What an education, to say the least. I can only compare the complete store chaos to footage Ive seen of looting following a natural disaster. Unbelievable. There was one store in particular we couldnt even enter because the aisles were piled high with discarded items that I can only assume had once been sitting nicely on a shelf.

So I ask myself why do we do it? Why does a holiday that is meant to be a celebration of the birth of hope, peace, and eternal love turn into a free-for-all circus? We are all guilty of losing sight of the true meaning of Christmas. It is not about the 50% off or buy one get one free sales. It is not about getting your kids more toys than they will ever know what to do with. It is not about having the most illuminated Santa Claus and Reindeer in your front lawn. It is about spending time with those we love and preparing for the celebration of His birth.

This year, try to spend more time with your family than with the store clerks. The gift you give of yourself will be remembered long after those store-bought items have lost their appeal. I wish you and yours a very blessed and Merry Christmas.