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Posts Tagged ‘christmas’

By Jerrica KF Ching

Photo by jeffjacobs1990

To reflect upon self-control around the busy holiday seasons is a privilege in my eyes, as it has allowed me to take careful stock upon what I prioritize during the final two months out of the year.  This year I planned further ahead than I typically would for holiday gifting.  Very similar to Melanie’s reflections of her family doing research before shopping, I had the idea to complete all of my holiday shopping at the beginning of November, to allow me to take presents with me to my family in person, rather than worry about shipping delays during holiday crunch time. 

While this was a success and I felt very content knowing that everyone had their presents accounted for, I forgot how much information we are inundated with no matter where we look during holiday shopping time!  Deal after deal can be found in ads on social media or websites, and we are flooded with daily discounts within our email inboxes.  Even when trying to stay off my phone, watching a video on a streaming platform on my television often includes ads for the latest and greatest gadget, gift, or holiday idea.  There are copious amounts of gift lists available for all budgets and for all the people in one’s life. 

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Photo by ePi.Longo

Photo by ePi.Longo

By Ann Chen

One of my favorite Christmas songs is “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” Recently, somebody asked me why, and I honestly answered that I didn’t know why except that I’m drawn to its soulful sound and that I hadn’t really processed what the words meant.

O come, O come, Emmanuel

And ransom captive Israel

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appear

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, O Israel.

I took it upon myself to reflect more deeply about the lyrics of this song. (more…)

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Photo by atomicjeep

By Joy Wong

Lately, I’ve become aware of a perpetual discontent within me.  It seems that my thoughts are often filled with “if only” statements.  When I look in the mirror, I lament, “If only I had a better complexion.”  When I think about my career, I think, “If only I knew what God wanted me to do.”  I also often hear such sentiments around me:  “if only I made more money,”  “if only my child was more ambitious,” “if only I lived closer to family,” etc — each “if only” statement expressing a less-than-ideal present circumstance, and perhaps a wish for the future to be diferent. (more…)

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