Christmas is the most popular holiday that none of us misses. It is the intersection of religion, capitalism, and the institution of family. But what is the real meaning of Christmas?

Christmas is not about capitalism

Christmas gifts are not a symbol of social status. We don’t need to receive expensive things or be ruined by the growing holiday industry. We don’t need things, only what they represent. A small gesture that means a lot, like a tiny colorful light in the cold darkness.

Christmas is not about religion

The Christmas spirit does not come from the church, nor from anyone’s resurrection. The Christmas spirit comes from within us. From the joy of life in spite of the shortening days, from the ability to always find the good, from the knowledge that garlands have meaning not because they are useful, but because they are dazzling.

Christmas is not about eating

Although competitive eating is a wonderful Bulgarian tradition, it is not the essence of Christmas. The essence lies in the joy of food, in the ability of home-cooked meals to bring people together because they are made with love. And, of course, in the smell of mandarins, which grow in Bulgaria during the winter.

Christmas is not an obligation

Decorating the Christmas tree, baking the Christmas Eve bread, exchanging gifts. None of this is mandatory. Christmas is just another opportunity to be happy for no reason, to choose to reward the child in ourselves and allow ourselves joy without remorse.

Christmas is magic

It is the happiness of children’s souls, the ability of each snowflake to be different as it weaves its winter fairy tale. It is the warmth that the accumulated snow gives to the snowdrop. It is a family smile, and we should be grateful every year that we have it.