We don't have gifts but we have love to give

In my household we haven't focused on the presents for years. Call it the recession that disabled all of our pockets or maybe we realized something?! I think the kids are starting to see some different point of view of not being bitter without the expensive gifts.  We haven't had a Christmas tree in years, we haven't put up lights up in a while. While the house isn't as bright as the other houses, it doesn't make my house less happy or less bright. We have that light in our hearts and that's more than some people can express.
We have a family unity and even though we're not always there with each other every holiday, we're all there there.
Don't get me wrong, I would never put down people who have the lights up. In fact, one day, if life permits that joyful feeling of having it all will come back into the home but until it does,  our love is what holds it together. I don't really care if there is presents seeing as Christmas is about something more but adding to the spirit just helps create a bigger atmosphere.
The reds, the greens, the wreaths, the tree... the colors... the little nativity scene, I hope to one day have.  
Christmas is about the beginnings  and the birth of the light in our hearts. That's one of the meanings it has. To let go of the fears, the pain and suffering and let today be the first day of the warm happiness to fill your hearts and brighten the rest of your year.
This year has certainly been an interesting one and I am thankful. I am very happy how it's ending and still bringing more joy. I can't express the happiness I have within but I know this is special and I don't want it to leave.

I do thank God and haha you post the sweetest things.