I know it's still weeks away, but this is the time of year when Randy and I, and especially our kids, start thinking towards Christmas. But this year, after spending ten months being mindful of how much I spend, and what I spend it on, our family has decided to say "no" to consumerism this holiday season. We truly have everything we need and more! It is so hard for us to ask for "stuff" when there are so many around the world that have trouble finding food or shelter. So we would like to make some suggestions for you as we think towards Christmas.
Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) is an organization that we know is doing great work across the globe, helping families that live in poverty, or have been affected by a natural disaster. Our family, keeping in step with our desires to eat organic and local (supporting sustainable agriculture), has picked a project to donate to this Christmas season in lieu of gifts for each other. Every $124 raised provides sustainable agricultural training, equipment and seeds for 10 families. Just think, for the price of buying a few Christmas ornaments, or a nice dinner out for four, we could change the lives of 10 families! And you don't have to give $124; you can give whatever amount you would normally spend on a Christmas gift. Click here to give to this project now!
We realize there are some of you out there that love the idea of handing something tangible to someone else during the Christmas season...so here is a second suggestion. If you normally spend $30 on a gift, try to find something of smaller dollar value but still meaningful. Think about making something for your family or friends (Audrey still has pictures her Grandpa or Uncle Ben drew her over a year ago). Or you could give a "coupon". As a kid, I loved getting and making coupons...pretty cards that said things like "This coupon entitles the bearer to one trip to the ice cream store", or "This certificate is good for three hours spent with just me (destination to be chosen by YOU)". We live in a busy, consumeristic society, and we want to teach our kids to slow down, be thankful for what they have, and build strong relationships with their family and friends!
We hope this post helps you think about how you will "do" Christmas this year with your own family and friends. For further thoughts, listen in on Rick McKinley's podcasts titled Advent Conspiracy.
Thank you, in advance, for understanding why we would want to take "Christmas" off this year. We hope you will find joy as you think up meaningful and creative ways to give of yourselves this holiday season!
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