It’s that time of year again! The lights start twinkling, the familiar melodies of childhood fill the air, snowflakes dance from the sky, and spirits lift in anticipation of ‘the most wonderful time of the year!’ Yet, for many, this season carries a duality of emotions.
For some, Christmas is a tapestry of joyous memories—family gatherings, festive feasts, and the thrill of gifts, gifts, GIFTS! My childhood was a symphony of love, laughter, and popcorn strands for the tree, with Rudolph and Frosty lighting up the TV in my grandparents' cozy living room. These memories warm our hearts and inspire us to recreate the magic for the next generation.
But beneath the surface, the season can also harbour a quiet sadness. Perhaps an uncle drank too much at the Christmas party, or a loved one’s absence left a void in the festivities. For others, the holidays are a stark reminder of loss and grief, where the glow of the season is dimmed by the shadows of past sorrows.
There are those whose memories of this time are tinged with pain—events that forever altered their lives, casting a pall over the holiday cheer. For them, the act of decorating a tree can feel like an insurmountable task, and the lights remain dark, honouring their current state of heartache.
Yet, amidst the joy and sorrow, the true spirit of Christmas shines brightest. It is a time to remember the essence of giving, a glimpse into a world filled with love and connection. The act of giving, without expectation, spreads joy like a contagious smile, lifting our spirits and those around us.
In the Clearwater community, I witnessed this magic firsthand. Usoff Tsao’s generous offer to buy snow tires for someone in need brought immense relief and gratitude to the recipient. At Bluestone Acres, we gave away half a cord of firewood to a family who had given so much to our community but needed extra support due to illness. The joy of giving was a gift in itself, reflected in the smiles of those we helped.
We give not for recognition, but because we’ve been there lost in waves of sadness or fear, uplifted by the kindness of others. The Online FB Clearwater Bulletin Group in the post that stated: ‘ask for what you need but cannot afford’ and then both give what you can and receive what is given, The Old Towne Gift Shoppe filling stockings for a mom in need and her kids and Ken Matheson’s #kindnesschallenge, these and many more examples are reminders from our Community that giving costs nothing but holds immeasurable value. What we put into the world returns to us tenfold.
Life’s journey is marked by feasts and famines, shared by all. We don’t need extravagant gifts or dazzling light displays to embody the spirit of the season. The greatest gift we can offer is our kindness, compassion, support, and understanding. These acts of love can be the beacon of hope someone needs to get through a difficult day.
When we recognize the power of our love, why wouldn’t we use it every day? As someone profoundly impacted by the kindness of strangers and friends, I know the transformative power of giving. The sadness I felt as a single mom, relying on food banks, was replaced over time with pride and joy through the generosity of others.
Imagine a world where we all give what we wish to receive. It’s simple: Be kind. Give the gift of your love. We are all connected, and one day, that gift will return to you when you need it most.
No matter what this holiday means to you, know that you are supported, important, and not alone. When the spirit of the season feels out of reach, remember that we have your back.
This is the magic of community at Christmas time.
Kaare Long is the owner of Bluestone Acres and president of the Clearwater and District Chamber of Commerce
