Christmas Spirit

No, no, I'm not talking about the whiskey and Jaegermeister I've consumed over the last week - I'm talking about that goodwill to all men, women, animals and anything  in-between!  I've been feeling pretty Christmassy all month, but the last week has seen my festive fever grow - and spread.  Whilst I admit I've had some pretty fun nights out recently, it's been the things I've been able to do for other people that has really given me a glow.  For example, on Tuesday I contributed some home-made German spiced biscuits to a bake-sale for Crisis - adding £19.50 to the £180 raised.  Yesterday, I was thrilled to see my mate laugh out loud at the slogan wristband I made her for Christmas.  And, the day before, I spread the love among my neighbours by delivering them all a Christmas card and gingerbread muffin - and was really touched to see the family who live below me followed by lead and everyone some chocolate on their doorstep the following day.

That's what I love about Christmas - making other people feel good, whether it's by giving them a present they love, helping them out when the stresses of the season start to get to them, or just making them smile on their commute to work.  Today, after a rather frantic shopping trip, I was sat on the tube when the driver wished everyone a Happy Christmas.  He probably didn't know anyone on the train, and it wasn't part of his job description, but he did - and it made me smile, despite my fatigue. 
Some people of course believe in the religious origins of the holiday season.  I personally don't, but embrace it whole-heartedly as an excuse to show people I love them and to spread a little cheer, whether it's by offering a complete stranger Season's Greetings, funding a bed space for a homeless person over the holidays or being there for a friend who is having a hard time.  That, in my book, is the true Christmas spirit. 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!