The Simplest Gift We Have to Give

One of the countries most insightful social commentators once remarked that as a society we’ve all gotten away from the true meaning of Christmas — “the birth of Santa”.

Homer Simpson, in his inimitable way, points to the seasons frenetic call to action as we compose and cross out lists, scramble to shop and wrap and mail, and often wonder “what’s the point?”

Overshadowed by all the doing, we lose connection with the only real gift we have to give, our heartfelt attention. Not so much the focused kind of attention necessary to act, but the simple being-with-attention that deepens connection. Whether it’s purchasing just the right gift, being with range of feelings the holidays evoke in us, or just being with whatever shows up to be with, including the appreciation of Being itself.

Sharing our conscious presence is itself a cause for celebration and the foundation for giving, whether through secular tradition, religious ritual or personal relating.

The open flow of our attention to another, which is a connecting love, will use any pretext for its expression — even Santa.