In 1889, The American magazine said, “To give up one’s very self — to think only of others — how to bring the greatest happiness to others — that is the true meaning of Christmas.”
The Dallas Express continued its tradition this year of asking locals what they consider to be the meaning of Christmas to see how much that meaning has or hasn’t changed in the past 134 years.
Intentional time spent with loved ones was a common theme.
“Time with God, family, and friends. Trusting God’s goodness will radiate light into every life, and intimacy which deepens the relationships you have with God and others,” said Rodney and Kim Dickson of McKinney.
“To me, it’s such a wonderful time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, candlelight services, Christmas music, and to always remember it’s not what’s under the Christmas tree … but who is around it,” said Ruth Holley from Richardson.
“Hope, joy, time with family and friends, feeling of gratitude to God for the greatest gift ever given to mankind,” said Irina Cowles, owner of Lift Dance and Fitness in Van Alstyne.
“I love the smell of Christmas, the twinkling lights, and the intentional time with family and friends, but most of all, just thinking about heaven come down to dwell and abide with us. Thank you, Jesus, for loving us so very much!” said Lisa Gottlieb of Arlington.
Others agreed with Christmas centering around Jesus.
“Christmas brings a sense of home to me. This is highlighted by the miraculous birth of Jesus — humble beginnings for the King of Kings. My parents brought faith in God to our family, and we passed it on. It’s not for keeping but sharing. Love is in the center of it all,” Cheryl Winters from Plano said.
“Christmas means to me the glorious gift of Jesus to mankind. His birth, ministry, death, resurrection, and the promise of His return. It’s a time to reflect and share this absolute love with everyone you meet. A time for comfort and joy. I love Christmas time!” said Debe Wyatt of Pottsboro.
Gratitude was also a prominent theme among locals.
“I give thanks for what I have and share as much peace, hope, and love as I can,” said Liz Kiefer of Fort Worth.
“Counting blessings and focusing on gratitude helps any time of the year. I like to see others shopping at our Skypony Gallery, which my husband, Doug, and I own. Even though it is the materialism of gift giving, I notice the care that most shoppers have in choosing the gift that lights up the hearts of others. During the Christmas season, it is heartwarming to see people focusing on giving love. Love doesn’t come with a price tag or a pretty wrapping. Love is the best gift that no one ever forgets,” said Kiki Curry Winters, whose gallery is located inside The Shops at Willow Bend.
Still, others expanded their comments to include a little lightheartedness.
“Christmas means time with family, celebrating the birth of Jesus. Oh, and another state title game for the Aledo Bearcats!” said Staci Smith from Aledo.
“Christmas to me is hope beyond this world — God with us now and for eternity. It is more than snowflakes and sugarplums; it is full of gratitude and being among people who are a little kinder this time of year. I love the classic Christmas music as it brings me back to the spirit of fun and lightheartedness I had as a child,” said Rod Marsh of Dallas, a professional muralist and owner of Distinctive Art Productions.
But it is important to remember that many struggle to feel merry and bright this holiday season.
“This year, it seems clouded by the grief of lost loved ones, an overwhelming year of life changes, and the rush to entertain guests, buy gifts, decorate, and look cheerful. At a time when the season should encompass joyful memories, it can be overshadowed by overwhelming sadness,” said Carol Johns of Dallas.
“Christmas has become more of the production of Christmas than the essence of Christmas, and this makes me sad. People are so busy trying to ‘do’ Christmas that they have forgotten the soul of Christmas: Christ,” said Rick Harper of Dallas.
Despite the hustle and bustle of the season, some feel this is a time to be reminded of the simpler things that enrich life.
“Christmas is a time for rest and remembrance. The everyday burdens of life quiet down as you are surrounded by those who matter most. Simplicity. Joy. Warmth,” reflected Brighton Mica of the Las Colinas community in Irving.
“Christmas is in the laughter shared around the table, the exchanged embraces, and the timeless rituals that knit us closer, reminding me of the blessings found in the simplest moments and the significance of faith and love in our lives,” said Kristin Johnson of Mansfield.
As 2023 comes to a close, The Dallas Express wishes our readers a safe and peaceful end of the year. We hope 2024 brings you light and love, no matter how you choose to celebrate.
