Christmas means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. It's celebrated across the globe through countless traditions by a range of cultures. Some celebrate the birth of a saviour, others take advantage of the material treasures they receive. Universally, Christmas seems to be a time for individuals to reflect on their lives. They remember the happy times and reflect on those difficult ones. Family and friends always come into focus as love is expressed not only through the giving of presents, but also by carefully chosen words and strategic physical manoeuvres. Many of us reflect on those who are battling demons and hardships as the selfless nature of humans is expressed. I for one feel that all of the aforementioned characteristics are what make Christmas truly what is. But there is one more element that I have always felt binds it together. The thread that holds this entire extravagance together is magic.
I'm not referring to enchanted woods and fairies and wizards when I say magic. I mean the belief that the world truly is a beautiful, magical place. I don't believe that unicorns exist, but at the same time I do. What do I have to lose by, in the back of my mind, hoping that there is indeed an undiscovered breed hiding deep with a rainforest? I'm not naive, I don't sit in my room waiting for my Hogwarts letter, test my wardrobe for Narnia or climb a tree looking to meet Moonface. But I think that this world is a magical place.
Venture into the city this time of year and stand in front of the David Jones windows. Watch the lighting of the Martin Place Christmas Tree. Watch Carols by Candlelight as an entire nation sings Living on a Prayer along with a girl who is vision impaired. The look on a small child's face as they open that present and it's exactly what they wanted is magical. Holding a parcel in your hands and discovering it's the most thoughtful gift from someone who has taken the time to get to know you feels magical. Laughing in a room full of those you love until you can barely breathe is one of the most magical moments that life can give you.
So on this day of love and peace and hope and salvation, I challenge you to live life magically. Don't be afraid to hope for the near impossible. Secretly believe that fairies live in your garden and that the rainforests of Brazil are home to a family of unicorns. This world is far too beautiful and enchanted for it not to be appreciated in that way. You have to believe in the magic of this world, or you'll never see it. So I say, throw caution to the wind. Allow yourself to every now and then check that Narnia hasn't appeared. Climb that tree until you're hanging on my a branch and still think that the Faraway Tree will be back soon. Know that saying expecto patronum to yourself really will make your fears disappear and that chocolate can heal most calamities. When it all seems like too much, take comfort in the fact that you know this world to be a truly magical place.
Until next time fellow humans....
