What does Christmas mean to you?

One of my big problems as a kid was that I didn?t understand the meaning of Christmas. I just thought it was the day we got to open up, all our gifts.

When I grew up I started to understand what it was all about. Christmas for me is a time of sharing and being with the ones you love. It?s not about getting, it?s about giving. Christmas is a brilliant chance for people to try to help with all their heart. For instance to provide food and clothing to homeless people who are in need.  Furthermore it shows us how lucky we are to have the things that we have, including a family that cares about each other. In my view this huge celebration can make us appreciate what we get more and not forget the spirit of the celebration. The central message of Christmas is considered to be the same for people all over the world: have fun, get together and love one other. If we do it, we will feel the happiest people in the world. In addition Christmas can not only be a chance to get rich gifts and enjoy good food but also it gives us the opportunity to go to church and to pray for health and happiness in our life without wars and sadness.

Unfortunately, nowdays more and more people forget the central message of this fabulous winter celebration and there is an unnecessary emphasis on material gifts.

Sotiria Vlachou, Class C1