When Christmas comes to mind, I see the image of beautifully wrapped presents sitting under the tree. One of the joys of the holiday season are the presents, however, many times we get caught up in quantity over quality. As we reflect back on our memories of Christmas as a child, we think of the anticipation on Christmas Eve, barely being able to sleep with the thought of Santa coming that night and tearing into our presents the next day. Christmas was always the highlight of the year, but as we grow older, some may say that the magic of Christmas is lost. We grow up, occupied by the never ending demand of school, work, and mountains of other responsibilities that we no longer know the childlike anticipation of receiving Santa’s presents. Christmas becomes something entirely different.

Now, when I think of Christmas, it’s all about giving instead of receiving. I have always found joy in giving gifts this time of year. Being a high school student who does not have a job, it is difficult to get gifts for everyone you want to without draining your parents of cash. Fortunately, I have enough artistic skills that making gifts are a good way to go. Although I constantly doubt my art , I have found that these gifts are the best ones that people will hold onto the longest. Even the smallest gift can have an incredible impact on someone’s life and many don't realize that . A few days ago, I had made a few small paintings and drawings for friends that I would give them the next day. The reactions I had received were better than any gift that could have been given to me. One friend in particular told me that this small drawing “made their whole month”.

It has become increasingly harder to answer the question, “What would you like for Christmas?” Whenever I have contact with my family leading up to Christmas I am assaulted with this question. I never know what I want for myself, however, I always have a plan for what I want to give them. When I spent my time making gifts, the thought of getting something from them never really crosses my mind, however, people never cease to surprise me. This past week I was given one of the sweetest gifts I have ever received. What was it? A card. It may be hard to believe that a 4x6 piece of cardstock could have the power to make me tear up. I cannot remember a time where I had felt so overcome with joy from getting a gift like I did then. It may have been a simple gift, but it will be something that will hold a wealth of meaning to me for a long time. It is truly amazing what an impact a small gift can have on someone.