In 1889, The American magazine (vol.28) wrote: "to give up one's very self — to think only of others — how to bring the greatest happiness to others — that is the true meaning of Christmas". Whether you believe in religion or not, the sentiment of sharing love and happiness is something everyone can agree on. The commercialisation of holidays has obscured some of the good intentions of gift giving. Giving does not need to be about fancy packaging and expensive gifts. There are other gifts, such as time, appreciation, care, and service that are needed so much more.

Poh Fang Chia wrote: "In a world where most relationships are about what we can get, let us be the type of friends who focus on what we can give. Jesus, our perfect Friend, demonstrated for us that "greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends" (John 15:13).

Another (unknown) writer puts it like this:

The glory of life

Is to love, not to be loved;

To serve, not to be served;

To be a strong hand in the dark

To another in the time of need;

To be a cup of strength to any soul

In a crisis of weakness.

That is to know the glory of life.

At this season, let us keep in mind those around us who need comfort, who need love, who need to be served. Take time out to give a bit more, without expecting anything in return. Continue doing that throughout the year, not just in the holidays. May you then know the glory of life.