I was going to pen a much more detailed, thoughtful expose on why Christmas is important, but I will instead steal a page from Sister Toldjah's book, and like her, repost this classic explanation:

Her personal wishes capture perfectly what I have been feeling this year also:

I was going to write a big fancy message tonight for Christmas, but I think that video says it best.

Wherever you are tonight, say thanks for your blessings, whether they be big or small. This year I have felt particularly blessed, and have wondered why God would choose to bless me in the way he has, as I don't always feel like I'm always the best Christian I can be. But a wise man recently told me that God knows a believer's heart, and rewards that person with blessings, in part, based on whether or not that person's heart is in the right place - blessings of love and/or prosperity (and not just of the money kind). And sometimes those blessings aren't obvious ones, but they are there all the same.

So if you're in the same boat as I am - feeling blessed but wondering why you are being blessed, it's comforting to know that God thinks you have a good heart; that in itself is a blessing that money can't buy and that no one can take away and that is worth more than anything sitting under the Christmas tree.

God bless you all.

Like her, I have reflected a lot on how blessed I am in many ways. next years is promising to be one of extreme challenge for me, for reasons I am not ready to discuss here, but suffice to say that I am expecting a lot of change and turmoil. But despite that, I know that I am extremely fortunate for the blessings of friends, family and opportunity.

During all of the media hyped economic turmoil I still have a job I like that pays my bills and provides me decent benefits. My family despite some recent losses remains stronger than ever, and the recent losses have caused many of us to feel the mutual need to reconnect. My health despite some recent hiccups remains good, with weight loss my most significant challenge.

And I have some of the greatest friends on the planet.

How much more blessed can a person be?

I hope all who read this find their true blessings in life, whether that be a hobby, family, religion or just the enjoyment of life in its grandness.

Merry Christmas, and God Bless us, every one.