To You

The red and green decorations have been up for nearly a month. Malls are filled with kids and parents looking for that special something. Couples find new and exciting ways to keep each other warm. Real warm.

And now the dilemma begins.

I first felt guilty back in kindergarten. It was St. Valentine's Day, and we all had paper sacks for the valentines that were given. I would receive a bag full, but I had not given any out. I don't celebrate Valentine's Day. This was a confusing time for me. Should I accept these valentines? Should I reject their thoughtfulness? What do I do?

I concluded that rejection is painful, so smile and give thanks.

This went on for many years, until Valentine's Day was reserved for couples only. And when I didn't receive any valentines, I felt relieved. There was no decision to make.

What does this have to do with Christmas? Well, like Valentine's Day, I don't celebrate Christmas.

I never had to face this problem when I was in school because we never had school on Christmas Day. I didn't think about it at all. Even when teachers decided to show Christmas movies during class, I would inform the teacher of my beliefs and accept the option to sit in the hallway. While other kids colored pictures of Santa, I drew my own pictures. While other kids gazed at the brightly-lit tree, I looked out of the window. And I never once held a grudge against anyone. I never wanted to interrupt their time to be happy.

I haven't been to church for many years now. But I still have my faith. This year, I'm really put to the test.

I have my family, and I have my handful of friends. The only group I'm thinking about is my collection of friends. No one in my family celebrates Christmas. So, I only focus on friends I trust. Friends I would do anything for.

I want to get presents for my friends. Not necessarily Christmas presents, but just gifts. Something to let them know that I do think about them. I do care.

At the same time, I believe that it would be wrong of me to accept a gift during this time of the year.

I like giving. I like watching someone's face light up when they hold what they've always wanted. I like making people happy.

While I'm at it, I should also mention that I'm single, I like cooking, and I like shopping.