Christmas – see it again for the first time

For most of us the word Christmas conjures up a world of thoughts and memories, ranging from familial delight to crass commercialism run rampant (and most things in between).

There is another way to look at it, though. The birth of Jesus was overlaid on a pre-christian myth honoring the power of the Nature gods, who are still alive even in the depths of winter. These are powerful hints of how we can choose to respond. Christmas is a time of year associated with starting again, with new beginnings.

In that way it’s a celebration of the Innocent archetype. Not only is nature starting over, but we can, too. We can reconnect with the innocent, playful, forgiving part of ourselves, if we wish. We can become loving, forgiving, open and accepting. What greater gift is there?

Giving requires generosity of spirit; and receiving requires us to see the love in the offering. We can manage that — if we let go of our old selves.