Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

Heatman6190 Level 1

September 3, 2017, 8:52 am

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Christians doesn't take Christmas celebration light. In my country Nigeria, it's a period of huge expenses as one would be looking forward to impress a lot of people. Growing youths plan to make enough cash to use and gallivant during the Christmas period. Some kill lots of animals such as cows, goats, rams etc.

To me all these things shouldn't be this way. It's merely a period of remembrance of Christ birth, the bringer of our salvation. So why all these spending by the people? What is your thoughts on this?

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aljo67

aljo67

For me simple preparation is fine but those who can afford has the right to be extravagant. Everyone has their reason to spend or anything on how to celebrate the season. What matters most the real meaning of is not found under the Christmas tree but where there is sharing of hope, give and share the blessings with others.

9 years ago

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rona14

rona14

Yeah I agree with you. The real essence of Christmas is Love which first symbolizes our GOD. It doesn't matter if how much extravagant gifts you can give what matters most is how much generosity you can give to people we love.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Exactly, I completely agree with you on this, what is Christmas if not love? We are actually celebrating God's love for us in the gift of his son to us as a token of our salvation.

9 years ago

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jemuelterrado

jemuelterrado

you just said it well celebrating depends on the wealth of the family. It is fine to prepare simple celebration but there are people who really loves this occasion because it is done once a year only and it is the birth of Jesus Christ our creator and if ever overemphasized, this is just a way of thanking our god. It doesn't matter whats important is were together with our love ones.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Even if it's done just once in a year, does it mean or guarantee people's getting themselves into to serious debts in order to celebrate a Christmas that would always come back next year?

9 years ago

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Soulwatcher

Soulwatcher

I think Christmas is overrated, its a time of the year everyone goes in debt to give gifts they can't afford. And then they spend the rest of they year working overtime to pay off the charge cards to get in debt again on the next christmas. Thank god I don't celebrate christmas!

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

You definitely understand my point @Soulwatcher. Most families this upon themselves to spend more they can actually afford, and be in serious embarrassing debts come January. Who does that really helped? Please humor me, you said you don't celebrate Christmas? Why don't you?

9 years ago

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gelotologist

gelotologist

Totally agreed, when you celebrate Christmas you probably don't have to be that rich and poor because that is not what Christmas is for. I remember here in our country when we celebrate Christmas, it's not always the food that we eat but the time we spend together like we go to church like for a straight week before the Christmas comes up.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Some people fail to understand that it's not about spending like it's the last day we were going to stay on the earth during Christmas that matters, but how open our hearts are towards one another in terms of love.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

The nature of the extravagant spending is really disturbing sometimes, most would unknowingly spend more than they can afford and be in debt.

9 years ago

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dzannerz

dzannerz

Same here because I also believe that celebrating christmas is not about having a big celebration with many foods and gifts and everything but it is the joy of giving and uniting each one of the family. So its not about how will you prepare your christmas eve but on how you will be doing good deeds on that day.

9 years ago

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joyang24

joyang24

I don't think so. Here in the Philippines, Christmas is one of the special ocassion that we celebrate. This is the day where the family go to church and eat together.

9 years ago

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Carmilina

Carmilina

True. I always love Christmas, it always bring me unbelieveable joy, at this age of 32 I still enjoy it

9 years ago

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augusta

augusta

One man is another man's poison.People enjoy things differently.

you might attach anything to it doesn't mean the next person wouldn't. Life is quite different for different people.

So bottom line is that we can't decide for anyone and that's it.

9 years ago

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Hurry14

Hurry14

I do get your point, but isn't this the perfect time to forgive and forget? I mean I know all people won't get along with each other, but at least at this kind of time or holiday most people do get along even with the ones they don't really get along. And I'm also not saying that we should go to our enemies and be friends with them even if it's not what you really want. Don't lie to yourself, and just be honest if you still can't really forget what he/she has done to you at least try to forgive him/her for the wrong things he/she has done and you will be more happy.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I really don't think that Christmas is actually about forgiving and forgetting, it's literally a time of love as it signifies the inception of man's salvation through the birth of Jesus Christ. I think it's Easter holidays that deals with forgiveness.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Yes actually, nobody is trying to decide for anyone how he or she should spend Christmas holidays but what we are really trying to stress here is the importance of not getting into serious debts all in the name of Christmas.

9 years ago

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jemuelterrado

jemuelterrado

I love the way you said it. We can enjoy Christmas as long as we are present in this world. It is quite different the feeling of how joyful it brings to us. It is the Jesus birthday so why not we enjoy those things in life and it is not overemphasized we just show how happy we are having Lord Jesus Christ.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Remember that God never asked you to over do things. In fact, it's written in some part of the scriptures which I can't really recall now that too much of everything is bad. So therefore, why would you get yourself into debts just to celebrate a Christmas that will always come back next year?

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Well, who doesn't love Christmas my dear? We all do as long as you are a good Christian, Christmas will definitely have a touch on you anytime it's celebration is around the corner. It doesn't matter one's age, I have seen an old woman at the age of 95 still thrilled about Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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vicsylicious

vicsylicious

I agree. Celebrating Christmas in the Philippines is really different from other countries. In South Korea, once you are 8 years old, you just give up on believing in Santa. Why? Because the parents always get caught sneaking in the presents under the tree at like 9 o clock in the night in Christmas eve. haha. However they do believe in Jesus Name like how we do.

9 years ago

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Tronia

Tronia

Yeah, it's the same where I am from. Most kids stop believing in Santa when they're around 6-10 years old. I remember how I found out that it doesn't exist. A friend of mine was talking about Christmas and I mentioned that I didn't write to Santa yet and she goes, "Do you mean to your mother?" and that's when I realized that parents are the ones sneaking presents under the tree. I cried for about a week then I got over it, haha Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Oh! She meant your mother is Santa the gift man? Haha, and how innocent kids can be, you felt so bad and started crying. This is why Christ said in the scriptures that the kingdom of heaven is for children.

9 years ago

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rona14

rona14

Hahaha. You made me laugh. I still can remember the days when I was still young I believe in Santa. I just know that Santa is just a fictional character that symbolizes generosity when my siblings told me that Santa is not true. True Santa are those people who give without expecting any return from others.

9 years ago

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lovefoxycharms

lovefoxycharms

LOL this reminded me of catching my mom and dad wrapping up presents to put under the Christmas tree and my father addressing himself as Santa Claus in the gift card! I was kind of disappointed at that time but I guess that's also fine. At least, I and my little brother had fun waking up early in the morning of Christmas day overly excited about what could be inside the boxes! I couldn't imagine if there was no Christmas. I guess you won't feel your childhood totally if there was never one.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

That was all in the bid to make their kids happy. This is real reason that I find most parents so adorable, they would do anything to makes their kids happy, even if it means becoming Santa Claus.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Every kid out there in the world is made to believe in Santa, it's virtually acted in almost all the cartoons they watch, so it definitely going to be impossible for them not believing in it. Some Catholic Churches acts up Santa events just to makes kids happy.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Really, South Korea tries to imbibe the pattern of making their kids not to believe in Satan at such a young age? That's really interesting, as it would definitely be beneficial to the entire community and household.

9 years ago

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justin223

justin223

True! We celebrate Christmas here in the Philippines simple. We always have reunions every Christmas. We always celebrate it on my grandparent's house. We exchange gifts and we share foods together.

9 years ago

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rona14

rona14

Yeah that's right. The most awaited celebration of the year here in our country is Christmas Day. Spend quality time with friends and family are priceless. Eat together on Christmas Eve is our unending culture.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

The truth of the matter is that people always looks up to Christmas celebrations as the defining moment of the year in which they should show their efforts for the whole year. This sometimes makes some families to approach the celebration with a mindset that would get them in perpetual debts throughout the new year. This is absolutely a. wrong way to celebrate Christmas.

9 years ago

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lovefoxycharms

lovefoxycharms

The same thing in my family! The highlight is when I and my cousins have to dance or to sing or even just recite a poem because we are looking forward to receiving the fresh crisp bills that my grandparents just withdrew from the bank to reward our performances! With just that kind of program, it already makes us so happy! But now that we are all grown ups, we do not have a lot of time to get together and do such kind of activities. I know that when our own children would gather up in the next few years, they would also feel the kind of happiness that we've had when we were also little! This is the essence of Christmas for me! It's all about sharing and the happiness as a family!

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Truly, Christmas is all about love and sharing of happiness and gifts if you can afford buying one for another or handily making one for your loved ones. Personally, I prefer hand made gifts during Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is purely how Christmas celebrations should be celebrated. It's all about bonding and showing of love and not getting carried away by unnecessary spending all in the name to impress people.

9 years ago

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ColdFlameChris

ColdFlameChris

True. Christmas here in the Philippines is the best. We even feel the Christmas spirit from the start of BER months. It's much-awaited event of the year.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Yes, definitely it's the same thing all over the Christian society, once September is around the corner, most families are now getting nervy about the Christmas celebrations coming up in 3 more months time.

9 years ago

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rona14

rona14

Yes, its in our culture to spend time together, eat together and go to church together every Christmas. A culture that we must preserve.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I definitely think or believe that the Christian community have already preserved Christmas and it's celebration. No matter how difficult life and living is at the turn of the year, once it's Christmas periods, people do make out time to celebrate it.

9 years ago

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kayjay77

kayjay77

Hi Joyang24. In all actuality, I must say that I've never been to the Philipines, so I cannot comment on why out of 365 entire days of the year, Christmas is the only time that you go to church and eat together. You , however, do so nicely remind us that the birth of Christ was, is, and most likely will remain an event that is beloved and celebrated all over the world, with Christ regarded as the only Son of God and one true Savior who's blood was shed by way of the crucifixion on Calvary's cross so that whoever believes (merely believes) in him should be found faultless on Judgment Day as we all stand before the Father and account for our lives on earth, and therefore escape the damnation of eternal hell fire that is reserved for those whose sins have not been "washed away," and have rejected the ways of righteousness. Wow, this is serious stuff. With that said, Merry Christmas 2017!!!

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I actually don't think what was meant is that it's only on Christmas periods that people go to churches. I think that emphasis is just being laid on people's commitment to normally go to churches during Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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kielrivera

kielrivera

Filipinos love to celebrate Christmas! Christmas here in our home town is way more extraordinary and way more fun! Cheers to all Filipinos!

9 years ago

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trebor2017

trebor2017

I agree in my place they always organize events where they invite all people in our barangay to celebrate Christmas. What good on it is there are always games and performances that will totally entertain people and make people smile which is the essence of Christmas. 97 days to go Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is really the bonding we are referring to, in which real Christmas celebrations should be about. Get together, spend quality time, eat, drink and share gifts if you came with any.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

As much as Philippines love and care about Christmas celebrations, I do think it's the same thing in other countries that cherish the event of the time.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

We all go to churches during Christmas celebrations, there is no one disputing that but the bone of contentions is the activities people force and put themselves through all in the name of Christmas is actually the case here.

9 years ago

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pandooh

pandooh

I think we have all different views on this one and I respect each one of you. For me this only happens once a year that's why people tend to give attention to this special occasion. It's also like throwing a party. But it is more religious. I do think that we all have different ways of expressing it. We may be more at ease when having a simple night but as long as we live it in our spirit. That really depends on you.

9 years ago

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vicsylicious

vicsylicious

I would like to share one of my family's Christmas days back in early 90's.

My sisters and i wake up about 7:00 am and our parents let us open two small gifts. Then we go down stairs in our new fluffy slippers and new pajamas and have breakfast. After breakfast we get washed, dressed and then go to church. All dressed up as people from the nativity (our church dresses up on Christmas day) (not the film). We come back home, My parents usually get started on cooking the Christmas dinner and after about half an hour of begging to open our presents we finally do. After we had opened all our lovely gifts from relatives and parents we have dinner. Then around 6:00 o clock we play board games. We finish playing board games around 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

9 years ago

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pandooh

pandooh

That's great to hear. I know that there are many who are still like you who have been celebrating it with more attention. May it be with our family, friends or strangers. I'm from Philippines and we do this tradition of ours every year.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's an established fact that Philippines are addictive when it comes to Christmas celebrations and period. It's actually a good thing because they share lots of love and bonding during this period.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

That is actually a really fun way way to enjoy Christmas celebrations. You both would really appreciate the coming of every Christmas.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

No one is against giving special attention to Christmas. Hell it's the birth of Jesus Christ and it deserves to be celebrated but the underlying fact here is that it is a celebration that comes every year, so therefore, there is no point in trying to kill yourself in a particular one because it's still going to come back again.

9 years ago

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plasmablutte12

plasmablutte12

Christmas is a symbol of holiday celebration in many countries. It doesn't necessarily to make it, as a christian holiday. Because, not all in many nations taught about Christmas ideals. In my country, Christmas is a good day of celebration, for all people. I don't think, it is necessarily to compare it, to other nations way of celebration. I take it seriously, when people compare it as a normal celebration. All people have their own way of incredible of celebration, and it is normal, as it become a diversity culture of everybody.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Yes exactly, you have a good point there. Most times, people's different cultures tend to make them celebrate Christmas in different ways but one thing is really common in all the celebrations going on all round the world, and it's just that for the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

9 years ago

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emoxigh27

emoxigh27

Yes. I think Christmas is overemphasized. Here in the Philippines, people start to prepare for Christmas as early as September 1. We have what we called "ber months" wherein people start to prepare for the Christmas.

You'll see Filipinos preparing their Christmas decoration-either buying new ornament at the malls or just clean the stored decoration they used last year. They also start to sell famous Christmas foods on the streets - the puto bumbong

Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

(a type of puto or rice cake named after the bamboo tube in which it is steamed) and bibingka

Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

( a type of rice cake, traditionally cooked in clay pots lined with banana leaves). They also love to play Christmas themed music especially at the malls and sometimes at the workplace, this way, people will feel the Christmas vibe.

We love holidays and Christmas is I think the most awaited celebration here. Filipinos believe that Chrismas is the best season to give and receive-either gifts, love or anything. However, I strongly believe that giving does not have a perfect time. If you want to help, you can certainly help today.

9 years ago

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rona14

rona14

Wow those foods are perfect during simbang gabi hahha. Always present in Christmas season.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Yes, those foods are quite irresistible, I doubt if I could be able to resist not taking a bite if I happen to there. It seems Philippines have a great cooking culture.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Wow those are very tasty meals, I would really love to have some. Well, it's not just in Philippines that people starts preparing for Christmas from September 1st. It's just the same thing over here in the African Nigerian Igbo States.

9 years ago

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tophew

tophew

yeah I agree with you buddy, Christmas is not all about expensive gift being receive or given, also Christmas is not all about lots of food to eat enjoying partying. what really matters is remembering the Christ birth pray to God heartily have time to feel to think what he has done to us to save from our sins so form me its okay not to elegant in celebrating Christmas as long as you are having intimacy with God.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

The truth of the matter is that most families or people fail to understand this. It's not about how much you spend during the Christmas season but how open your heart is towards your fellow men in the showing of love and care.

9 years ago

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SirenOnFire

SirenOnFire

As for me, I don't that they actually are. I t really depends on a person though. Some feel like they have to spend a lot of money just to enjoy Christmas, buy tons of presents for every friend and family member, and cook every possible food they can despite of not having enough cash for all of that. All those I've mentioned I believe is the reason why quite a few feel like Christmas is overemphasized. Well for one, these are obviously unnecessary waste of money. I think Christmas is all about remembering Christ and His birth, praying and being thankful for Him saving us, and all the blessings we have received from Him. They're about gifts really, but well they are quite a big part of the event, but we can still show our appreciation to people without spending so much for one gift right? It's all about Jesus, not the food we have on the table, nor the gifts we give to one another. We Christians have to remember that.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

The problem with most families during Christmas season is that they normally tend to forget the true reason for Christmas and switch it for vanity celebrations. They see it as a time to impress other people and as such they engage in all sorts of spending which on a normal circumstances they wouldn't and this actually turn to bite them in the back after Christmas periods.

9 years ago

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galegatling

galegatling

Hmm. I believe you have answered your own question.

Christians doesn't take Christmas celebration light.

It's merely a period of remembrance of Christ birth, the bringer of our salvation.

Maybe these Christians (I'm sure you are too) doesn't take Jesus Christ lightly. Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Haha, you are actually funny. Yes of course I'm a Christian but I'm definitely not in support of extravagant spending and getting into serious debts all in the name of Christmas. It's totally not worth it.

9 years ago

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Blank629

Blank629

No I think Christmas is not overemphasized. We must celebrate this holiday because for me it is the most awaited holidays of all times. Not only because we receive gifts from others and have plenty of food but also it is the birthday of our Lord. So we must enjoy this celebration to the fullest.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Nobody is against celebration of Christmas but what we should be wary about is how we actually celebrate the Christmas in terms of our spending. It shouldn't be done in such a way that we are completely into debt for a celebration that will definitely come back next year.

9 years ago

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geloi

geloi

I don't think overemphasized is the right word. Some people just really like to celebrate a lot and some may have waited for Christmas just to celebrate. We have a very diverse culture, and each has their own way of celebrating Christmas. I also don't think that Christmas is just for Christians if we are talking about Religion, because other religions might just have other names for it. We celebrate Love and the existence of humanity at this Time and this is the only time we feel really really special. Christmas is coming and I am so excited to feel the spirit of it.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Well, the turning point of knowing if Christmas is overemphasized or not after each celebration is the financial status and debt level of anyone or family after the Christmas, knowing fully well that the Christmas celebrations is still coming back.

9 years ago

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sarsino

sarsino

Well it will definitely varies on how people celebrate Christmas. For me, we have a simple celebration of Christmas. Christmas is like a reunion we got to see family members and we are just happy exchanging gifts.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is exactly what Christmas celebrations should be about, the reunion, getting together, sharing of love, eating together and giving of gifts and not trying to show off to the entire community or neighborhood that you have money to spend during Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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jien0302

jien0302

Its defend on how people celebrate it. Some families spend a lot money because they can afford it, but some family did'nt.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Those families that believe they have excess to spend during Christmas seasons doesn't even understand the concept of Christmas at all. Instead of showing off now wealthy and affluent they are with extravagant spending, they should channel it to helping the less privileged in their community.

9 years ago

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justaguy

justaguy

My personal view on Christmas is about celebrating the coming of our savior Jesus Christ ( In Catholic belief ). I am a catholic and I share the same belief. Now a days in our country, this is the season where most people receive bonus from their work and what we call 13th and 14th month pay for completing the whole year of service plus a long vacation mostly lasting up to 14 days. Because of this reason, people tend to buy foods and gifts for the most awaited occasion of the year. Even though business are very active, I don't think it is proper to say that this season is over emphasized because spending extravagantly or not is a mater of your own choice.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Choice is everything in life but remember, there is what we call a wise choice and a bad one. As much as Christmas deserves to be celebrated, the celebration should come in a reasonable manner and not blown out of proportion.

9 years ago

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Tronia

Tronia

I think yes. It's absolutely ridiculous when I go into the town and see Christmas decorations two months before Christmas even starts. It makes no sense and this has only started happening in the last couple of years. Before, in the past, they never did this.

My grandmother told me how they always turned the lights on the same week of Christmas. They didn't spend thousands of dollars on gifts but instead, every kid got a chocolate and an orange - that was it. No expensive or big gifts. Now everybody feels like they have to spend half of their money trying to make their children or friends happy. I absolutely love Christmas and the spirit it brings but I hate the excessive spending.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I simply think that it's in the nature of most men to over do things. Christmas celebrations is quite good and interesting but going about it the wrong way isn't a good idea.

9 years ago

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jayken

jayken

I fully disagree about this. Because here in the Philippines we celebrate Christmas with Jesus Christ and our family. were always thankful ab out this celebration and it's all because of Jesus Christ. me and my family go to church to celebrate the day when Jesus Christ was born. after that, we do our Noche Buena with our family. we give each other a gift and eat dinner together. That's why Filipinos always said that 'walang kapantay ang pasko sa pinas'.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

First of all please what does "walang kapantay ang pasko sa pinas" mean? Secondly, no one is against the celebration of Christmas but the issue is how it's celebrated and the aftermath of such celebration.

9 years ago

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billdk24

billdk24

yup its overmephasized in terms of celebrating its true meaning. people tend to see it at the time for having ,recieving and showing off new material possessions when it is really not about it.

can't blame society when its been put up to be celebrated like that for years. western influence had a huge impact especially with "santa clause" story giving out gifts

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

You definitely understand the point which I'm trying to make here. Christmas is not about showing off, like what most people do lately. They cease the opportunity to use Christmas to over do stuffs, spend more they can afford and be in debt the coming new year.

9 years ago

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KhalilaRose

KhalilaRose

Retailers and capitalism have taken many of the major Christian holidays and turned them into huge profit-making schemes. I'm not blaming them in any way, simply saying that they saw an opportunity and took it. So in that sense, many of these holidays (including Christmas) are over-emphasized since pre-holiday sales and celebrations tend to start months in advance. Businesses need consumers to be in the "Christmas spirit" for as long as possible so they can sell more.

On the other hand, holidays are the few times where the whole family can get together and can be the only time everyone is present, so people looking forward to the holidays are expected.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's absolutely true, businesses tend to experience a huge increased sales during Christmas seasons, this actually shows that people live for the thrill in showing off and spending extravagantly during Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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felabruno

felabruno

I like Christmas for its atmosphere, here it always happens in winter so the snow is falling, it's warm at home, you can decorate a christmas tree, bake gingerbread cookies and meet your family. I don't care much about the religious nature of this holiday, I don't even know if the birth of Jesus Christ happened in December, possibly the date was just chosen because many pagan holidays happened around this time.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I really don't know anything about the actual reason why such period is chosen for Christmas celebrations. But what I do know is that families do take the celebration more serious than how they are supposed to take it.

9 years ago

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preciseone

preciseone

I am so glad that you bring this up! My thoughts on this are some that many people will disagree with. But number one we really do not know the true birthday of Jesus Christ. Also if this is the day that we are going to celebrate his birth, why is our focus on ourselves rather than him. I do believe in the birth of Jesus, but not the holiday of Christmas because it is overemphasized.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I'm glad that the article is about something that you have harbored over the course of time and now it's here to be discussed in the open. People do tend to go the wrong way about what or how Christmas celebrations should be, and I'm definitely not seeing it stopping any time sooner.

9 years ago

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PinkTurtle

PinkTurtle

I looove christmas! even the spending a lot part lol. Maybe it is overemphasized as you said but I love that. I love excess and celebration. Everyone seems happier in christmas, the people, the streets, even that old grumpy aunt we all have comes to say hi.In my country santa doesn't "bring" the presents is the baby jesus who does. Kids believe He is the one bringing the gifts. The conception of Santa claus is not that emphasized such as the baby jesus is.

9 years ago

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galegatling

galegatling

True, if it's possible (although it is if we let it) to have the whole month as a Christmas celebration, that would be awesome. With the things happening around the world, specially on the ones that have very bad events such as in Syria and the threats from other countries such as North Korea, we have already felt sad and terrified. And that is not going to end soon.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Did you say a whole month as Christmas? I definitely think it's what the month of December is all about. Once it's 1st December, people starts getting wishes to happy Christmas. It's entirely up to you on how you go about and when you feel comfortable celebrating yours.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

All Christians do love Christmas celebrations and period, in fact even non-Christians now do love Christmas periods, especially those that are into sales, transportation and music business. It's definitely a period that they experience the highest increase sales over the course of the year.

9 years ago

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Destiny00

Destiny00

I agree. In America, stores start with the Christmas advertising in late September. Retail companies depend on the shopping season for profits, and so the shopping season itself has been expanded. The result is exetremely stress-inducing for consumers. The focus has shifted from a holy season to a marketing strategy. I love Christmastime and getting ready for the season once Thanksgiving is over. I really dislike how our culture puts so much emphasis on spending and meeting crazy expectations in the name of celebration.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's practically obvious now that most business Enterprises look up to Christmas season as a time for making a great deal of profit. If you noticed, there is always a great number in most company's business output because they are looking forward to increased sales.

9 years ago

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Barida

Barida

I understand the buzz we have about Christmas and I understand that it is that period we tend to showcase that we have the cash especially in Nigeria where we come from, but I still do not think Christmas is overemphasized for goodness sake considering the fact that it is a unique period when Christ, the savior of the world, was born. What I do not like is some people doing evil things to make money which they will spend lovingly during Christmas which is such a bad attitude against man and humanity.

Chritmas should be celebrated in a big way for it is that time most families that live far and near come together to celebrate the remembrance of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, let the big celebration continue!

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Yes, you are absolutely correct in stating that it's a great moment in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ but does it justify getting into serious embarrassing debt only for the sake of celebrating an event that would definitely come back the coming year? The answer to that is probably no. Then, why do most families and people try to kill themselves over Christmas celebrations?.

9 years ago

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Judas2018

Judas2018

I think the commercialism of it is over-emphasized. It's all about shop - shop - shop. People have become less aggressive and mean during the holiday season though. I think that's because more people are doing their Christmas shopping online now. Most of the real beasts are emerging from their caves during BLACK FRIDAY. Which is the day after Thanksgiving where stores slash their high-priced items down to extremely low totals. So you can get a 60 inch flatscreen tv for under $500 in most cases. That's when the really abrasive people show up, because it's a once in a year opportunity.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is exactly what I'm referring to. Why are people pushed to over spend and get into debts over Christmas celebrations? Does it come with a spirit or is it in man's nature to be extravagant? It's basically a period of happy moments to most business Enterprises.

9 years ago

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Vastor122

Vastor122

Yes. As much as I love Christmas, I can't deny the fact that it is indeed overused and over-commercialized by some selfish tycoons just to make a profit out of it.

9 years ago

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Judas2018

Judas2018

It does drive a big boom into the economy though. Especially here in the states. Helps a lot of businesses get into 'the black' (that area where a store or business reaches or surpasses its yearly or quarterly earnings). So there's that. But as more and more people become less religious and more spiritual, I think the true Christian, meaning of Christmas will continue to fade away in the memories and minds of most people.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Yes exactly, the economy tends to experience a great push during Christmas seasons and celebrations probably as a result of the persistent buying by most people and families. Most business Enterprises and establishments value Christmas season more than any other time of the year.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Personally, I don't have any issues with any business establishment trying to make good sales during Christmas seasons and celebrations. It's a proper thing to do by any business venture to try and make more sales but then it's the duty of any man to have a limit to what and how you spend during Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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rogiesonb

rogiesonb

I think it isn't and it depends on where you are. In our place, we do not really exaggerate that much as opposed to what you stated. We only make simple preparations for Christmas Eve and only prepare much when our family has been successful for the year. It only happens once a year so I think it isn't that much to complain about. Besides, we also have to celebrate for reaching another year or another Christmas and more to come. Some people consider it as the best occasion because family relatives gather in one place and celebrate the night together before they go on again with their own lives away from each other.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

If such is how Christmas is celebrated in your state, then you people definitely understand what and how a Christmas celebrations should be carried out. It should be able showing of love, bonding and sharing of gifts and not a moment or period of showing off one's wealth and affluence.

9 years ago

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KMarlowe

KMarlowe

I enjoy Christmas, and I think it's fine if people want to have big celebrations with food and gifts. For many families, it's a rare opportunity to get the whole family together, so it's a big deal. However, I think sometimes people make it more stressful than it needs to be. It's fine to buy a lot of presents if you can afford it, but sometimes people get really upset when they can't afford lavish gifts, especially for their kids. Or they obsess over making everything perfect and they don't take the time to relax and enjoy the holiday. I think people who observe Christmas should celebrate in whatever way brings joy to themselves and others.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

If it brings you joy and happiness for a couple of days and gives you torment and restlessness as a result of debt for more than 5 months, isn't it a penny wise and pound foolish?. As much as Christmas deserves to be celebrated, going about it the right way is absolutely crucial in order to avoid unnecessary embarrassment as a result of debt.

9 years ago

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poingan77

poingan77

For me, celebrating religious occasions doesn't matter if you celebrate a couple of months early or celebrate abundantly. As long as you know your capacity that it won't be a problem afterwards. What matters is As long as you celebrated religiously and spiritually with your family don't forget what is the true sense of the occasions you are celebrating.

9 years ago

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galegatling

galegatling

Yes. As long as you aren't showing off or burning all your money just for nonsense stuffs like buying unnecessary things just to show to your neighbors that you can afford or something. Smh. Some people would sometimes go to the heights of loaning money from their insurance or companies just to buy things that sometimes wouldn't be even used for next year. >.>

9 years ago

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poingan77

poingan77

Exactly! as long as in the end you won't regret spending a lot of money you didn't own.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Most people fail to understand that, it only becomes clear for them when those debts are being asked to be paid for in full and they would be mopping.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's the showing off that's the major issue when it comes to people actually abusing the concept of Christmas seasons and it's celebrations. Instead of using the excess wealth to help the less privileged, they waste it on useless things. The most annoying part is when one even resort to borrowing in order to feel amongst the higher class in the society.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

The problem is that even when one knows his or her capacity in terms of financial status, but most times people do seem to get carried away in the course of the celebration and if one isn't careful enough would get involved into to spending he/she never planned for.

9 years ago

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zheh

zheh

I think it still depends on the person. Here in our country christmas is really fun. It's one of the most awaited holiday in a year. Cause it's the season that serves as a reunion of the families and friends. It's the season for giving. But it depends on you if you have the money to spend on having a party or giving gifts. People will not be harsh on you if you don't have a gift to give. If you don't have the budget you can be the one to go to your relatives or friends house and party. And even if you don't have a gift for them, i'm sure you will have something you will receive from them. People are just happy on seeing each other in this season. Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

Do you think Christmas is overemphasized?

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's definitely about showing of love, bonding together with loved ones and families and sharing of gifts. Christmas celebrations should never be about showing off one's wealth and affluence just to impress or intimidate the less privileged. It's even more appropriate to use such God given money to help you poor, the needy and the helpless ones amongst us.

9 years ago

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BelindaMT

BelindaMT

Heatman6190,
Well maybe our kind of Christmas celebration here in my country is quite different from your country. I think it was not over emphasized since it was only once a year. and the reason we celebrate Christmas because Jesus was born and he is the light of the world. It depends on the family how they celebrate it. The most important things to do in this special day is to go to church and attend the holy mass.

In this occasion, other believes that Christmas is giving. So I see Rich people giving gifts to poor family. Some people will buy Christmas decors so they can feel the spirit of Christmas at home. For others, it's also the time for reunions and gatherings and yes they spend too much. Maybe that's why you said it was over emphasized.

When I celebrate my Christmas with my family, we usually go to church in the 24th day of December before midnight. I prepare gifts for my children, niece, and nephew because Christmas is for children anyway since children is the symbol of Jesus in this event. I don't usually prepare food because I'm too busy that day attending family reunions.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

@BelindaMT That Christmas season and celebrations is something that comes once in year isn't enough reason for one to get drown in its celebrations with extravagant spending and getting into serious debts for an event that would still come up the subsequent year. Some people even make the mistake of borrowing money during Christmas seasons in order just to feel among the group that is trying to impress people.

Christmas shouldn't be celebrated in such manner in any part of the world, it's not the right way to go about it.

9 years ago

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sephzer

sephzer

The spirit of Christmas is not to impress people, but instead to impress God. In a simple way that you can celebrate it without being boastful then that is a good thing. The spirit of christmas is LOVE.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

@sephzer This your reply is the most interesting response that I have read so far and I definitely hope that people should view Christmas in such manner. Christmas celebrations shouldn't never be about showing off to impress anyone but God alone and it's through our relationship with our fellow human beings especially to the less privileged and needy ones amongst us.

9 years ago

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overcast

overcast

I think christmas is now overly commercialized. Every small thing under it is now being marketed badly. So it's surely some of the worrisome thing these days. And people have to be really mindful about how they are spending the money. I think christmas, black friday, chanukah, hanukah all are marketed. And they are losing the religious touch of that. That's what I have learned from experience.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

@overcast I don't really have issues with any business establishment trying to make good number of sales during Christmas seasons and celebrations, I have more issue with the individual who spends to show off and impress people during Christmas seasons. Some even do such spending with borrowed fund.

9 years ago

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chelfox18

chelfox18

Here in our country, September is the start of our Christmas, because that's our culture here. It's the most awaited holiday of the year. We started it early to praise GOD, despite too many calamities we've been experiencing, still we are thankful to him. All are excited to have family reunions, going to church, because for us Christmas is all about Jesus and family.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's actually called the "ember" month and season here in Nigeria. It's the turn of the year people take everything literally serious in order not to feel left out during the December period of the actual Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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lovefoxycharms

lovefoxycharms

Yes, I do concur that Christmas is sometimes overly stressed on in some countries or homes. I guess it just relies on what kind of lifestyle you have and your preference on how you mark it as long as you would emphasize more on the birth of Jesus Christ. For me and my family, we usually decorate our house for a bit, exchange gifts, attend the midnight mass and prepare for Christmas eve dinner. In this simple ways, we feel and enjoy the Christmas season. This is the time when we should not show off but what is important is that we celebrate it with our family whether it's in an extravagant way or not. Christmas is about sharing, faith, hope and joy in our hearts, and being grateful for the blessings we have. I am proud that in my country, this would be always be observed in any parts. Indulgence and luxury are contemplated but it's not the highlight of the season.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is actually true. Most people do tend to forget the real reason behind Christmas season and celebrations by channeling all their attention in the eating, spending and showing off which in turn reflects on the amount of debt they are going to find themselves in once the celebration is over.

9 years ago

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rona14

rona14

Christmas is for once a year and must be celebrated with lots of love and forgiveness. Here in our country no matter what happened, with or without money, we celebrate Christmas together with our family and loved ones.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is definitely what and how Christmas should be celebrated and not the other way round of showing off and spending extravagantly. It should be all about love, bonding and giving of gifts.

9 years ago

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justin223

justin223

I think it depends on people's perspective. About on what you are saying, I think it is normal for people to celebrate like that. Slauthering animals for food in christmas is normal for me, because here in the philippines we slauther chicken, pork, beefs and goat for celebration. We celebrate christmas by exchanging gifts and sharing food to each other.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I do agree with you that it's all dependent on one's perspective on how he or she goes about his spending spree during Christmas. This is the real we are advocating than its wise be spendthrift during Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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trebor2017

trebor2017

Well we celebrate the birth date of Jesus Christ which is a very important to Christian people. So, it is worth making effort celebrating since it is the birth date of the one who save us because of our sins. I actually love Christmas because even though family members are far from each other they actually make effort to go home and celebrate Christmas with their love ones, in other word it unifies families around the world. That’s how powerful Jesus Christ is.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

As much as it's the birth of Jesus Christ that's been celebrated, it's not enough reason to get into debt by spending what one can't really afford.

9 years ago

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anor0428

anor0428

Christmas is a very special season of the year, a celebration that can also serve as a reunion for families, relatives, and friends. Here in the Philippines we do have traditions during Christmas. One of it is "Simbang Gabi" (Night or pre-dawn mass), it is held daily from December 16-24 which some Filipino believed that if they complete the 9 mass, their wish will be granted. During night, you hear some kids along the street who sing Christmas carol, some also set Christmas party and exchanging gifts days before Christmas. I don't think Christmas is overemphasized, it's just that each country or each family has their own way on how they will going to celebrate Christmas. It does not matter if it is simple or not, what matters is we give time to remember and cherish the birth of Jesus Christ.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

You are absolutely right on your assertion, it should be about the sharing of love, getting together, bonding as well as sharing of gifts with ones family and friends. It's a pity that most people nowadays abuse the celebration done during Christmas seasons.

9 years ago

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manmad

manmad

Holidays are to be appreciated and Christmas is one of the biggest ones in the year, that everyone or at least most people and kids are waiting for. Every person loves presents and the whole Christmas spirit is great too, all the movies about it when the time comes, the whole celebration. I don't think that it's overemphasized at all. Of course no one has said that you should go bankrupt and waste all your money, but celebrating it comfortably doesn't cost much.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It seems that you aren't understanding the true nature of what we are experiencing in most countries, some people go to the extent of borrowing money all in name of Christmas. This is the height of errors people tend to go wrong about during Christmas seasons and it's celebrations.

9 years ago

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diels1001

diels1001

Christmas for Christians is the celebration of the birth of their savior Jesus Christ. I think it must really be celebrated because it is their belief and we must respect that. But for the recent years, I just noticed that this celebration becomes awful and awful. Instead of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the day is becoming just an ordinary holiday, relaxing at home, releasing stress from work, and spending carelessly the year-end bonus. I can't blame myself for noticing, because I have seen that yearly, the number of people who goes to church every Christmas decreases, due to the fact that they do that different things. Instead of coming to church, ask for forgiveness and pray for guidance, people celebrates Christmas by having parties at home, having feast and eating heavily. Also, the youth are not properly oriented for the right value of Christmas in their lives. They are having a different thought because of what is happening around them. Just a remember, Christmas does not need a feast to celebrate, just going to church with the whole family is enough.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

You definitely grasp the true nature of what most people out there now do all the name of Christmas. The conception that the older generation is having on Christmas is directly affecting now the younger ones are influenced negatively.

9 years ago

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jbmedalla2

jbmedalla2

Well, it's already part of the culture of all people (except to those who doesn't believe in Jesus Christ) that during Christmas, we give and receive gifts and we always have a plentiful dinner. It's just a one time celebration so people tends to celebrate glamorously but people should spend carefully because they might broke their wallet! For some people, especially to those people who doesn't have plenty of money, going to church together with their family during Christmas is enough to celebrate it and that's the real meaning of Christmas. To be with someone you love.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's definitely going to be a lot better if people would listen when being told that Christmas isn't about impressing anyone but God alone, and so therefore it doesn't matter for one to be going to the extent of getting into serious debts just to celebrate one Christmas that would still come back again next season.

9 years ago

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Hurry14

Hurry14

I disagree with your post, because I'm from Philippines and Christmas is the most special holiday in our country. Not like other holidays aren't special but Christmas day is something we really looked forward to every year. Some Filipinos might just be doing it because of the culture they grew up with, but still most of us still treasure this one of a kind holiday each year. And it's not just about how luxurious can your feast be during this special holiday, but on what you can offer with all of your heart with the sense of share your blessings. It can be a whole chicken, whole pig, whole cow or something not that expensive like simple cake, spaghetti, salad, and any simple feast you can have. This is the time to remember how Jesus gave everything to us including his own life. I know that everyone is busy through out the whole year, but at least we will never forget him and everything he has done for us when this holiday comes near us, so even if we can't have a big feast it's not really important. What important is that we will always remember and never forget Jesus Christ each year.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

You should take note that Christmas isn't just about cooking several good food and eating, I'm not saying cooking during Christmas is a bad idea, no not really. What we are solely advising is that people always be wary on how they engage in reckless spending during Christmas seasons and ending up being in so much debt the coming year.

9 years ago

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dzannerz

dzannerz

Well as for me, I really dont think that christmas would more over emphasized because of all the holidays we celebrated, christmas is the most awaited and the most exciting season. Every children in the world are waiting for this time of year because they believe that this kind of season is a time of sharing and giving. They all know that this time is the only time in which they can recieves gifts. If we think that we are to be over emphasized christmas, then maybe we become one of the reasons why those children are wont achieve happiness.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

As much as Christmas is being looked to to at the course of one year, it's never enough reason why people take it upon themselves to incur several debts and continue with unnecessary spending during the Christmas celebrations, probably to influence people's thought about how affluent the individual has become.

9 years ago

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marbertism

marbertism

I believe that Christmas is worth to be celebrated with big of a deal which should be centered on Christ alone. Christmas is, as you say, a season of remembering the birth of our Savior. By this, we should be thankful His coming and reciprocate it by giving back to our brethren especially the very needy. This is a manifestation that Christ has come and so blessings through giving (material and immaterial things) should multiply around the world. It's wrong to celebrate Christmas to impress others. Use Christmas as a season of reconciliation & forgiveness and start something better for our relationship with others.

In my country, Christmas is the season where you can see a lot of people buying stuffs from store to store. This is largely caused by the fact that 13th month pay and other bonuses should be legally given in December.

Christmas should be overemphasized because this is the season of giving and grace from Christ which should be rippled through out the year ahead.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I seriously doubt if most people nowadays gives any recognition to the birth of Jesus Christ itself on Christmas seasons. They are now mostly interested in spending on useless stuffs just to impress their fellow men instead of working towards impressing God himself. Christmas celebrations shouldn't be taken with mind set mindset because it would only end up putting such person that viewed it in that manner in a tight spot of debt payments over the course of the new year.

9 years ago

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gamergurl

gamergurl

Christmas has become a solely for-profit kind of thing, that's for sure, and as marketing is how capitalism works then it's pretty obvious that it follows that there's big emphasis on the celebrations during December. That said I don't think that it's a big deal, because one can just decide not to take part anyways. Personally I haven't celebrated Christmas since I was a kid, because I have much more important things going in my life, so I don't have time for such things. Also helps to be able to save loads of money doing that!

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is actually true, most business Enterprises tend to look up to Christmas season as their time to increased product sales and services. I don't really blame them but the people who are disturbed already by having the poor mindset of believing that Christmas is about getting money to show that you are on top of the world. This is absolutely wrong.

9 years ago

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PedroP

PedroP

Pretty much yes. I think that like most modern holidays it has turned into a commercial date rather than a meaningful one. People hardly remember the true meaning of Christmas anymore and all they associate it with is presents and spending. Too bad

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's truly a bad that that people now take Christmas celebrations that wrong way, instead of trying to relive the coming of Jesus Christ our personal Lord and Savior, they are more disposed to reckless spending, even to the extent of borrowing money just to impress people. Proper sensitization needs to be carried out and informate people again on how a Christmas celebrations should be about.

9 years ago

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ballyhara

ballyhara

It all depend on cultural issues. There are people around the world that take Christmas as regular day to day. On the contrary some people waste tons of money celebrating it. My family has taught me to respect the season. It's ok to feel happy, share gifts and food, but is not good to spend it all just because it's Christmas. The real celebration is to remember the Lord, and doesn't associates with making yourself crazy wasting money, on the contrary, you are supposed to be humble like him.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It would definitely be better if people have the same kind of perception that you have during Christmas seasons and celebrations. It's nice to really respect the fact that it's a huge time in the life of every Christian, but respecting it doesn't mean one should fall a victim of excessive spending and debt accumulation all in the name of Christmas celebrations.

9 years ago

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TheArticulate

TheArticulate

I guess you could say Christmas is "overemphasized". Anymore, it's such a commercialized holiday, I'm not sure how many people really celebrate it for other reasons aside from just celebrating it and giving gifts. Like anything, I suppose capitalism did what it does best and turned something into as big of a money-making event as possible!

I hate Christmas shopping more than anything really. I'm terrible at picking out gifts for people anyway, and I'd prefer to just spend the day with my family having a home cooked meal (which we usually do every year) and catch up. I can't stand the crowds that are out in the retail stores either (especially when I worked retail, too. Ugh.)

9 years ago

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JoeMilford

JoeMilford

I totally agree with you here, and I think that the true meaning of Christmas is really lost on most of us. Also, I think that it is an incredibly stressful time of year as we all rush around trying to get our shopping done in some insane materialistic and capitalist frenzy. The family part is great, and I really appreciate that, but the stress of gift buying and choosing gifts for others is a bit much, at times. People have actually been injured or trampled to death during sales at major vendors here in America, and I think that should demonstrate just how far we "overemphasize" the wrong things during the Christmas season.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is really just what we are experiencing in today's world. People have strayed and believe that Christmas is all about spending money but it's completely wrong.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's definitely a true fact that Christmas nowadays is simply a commercialized holidays, because people now tend to forget the real reason why Christmas is being celebrated and go far beyond it, and completely making a fool of the whole celebration.

9 years ago

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Cromate

Cromate

No, because Christmas is always the day of happiness and love. It is the only day in a year wherein we feel happy being together with your loved ones, the day of giving and sharing, and the day of happiness. As a Filipino citizen, we always celebrate christmas as early as the first day of September. During Ber months, we already hear christmas songs in shopping malls that's why as early as September, we already feel the spirit of Christmas.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Nobody is disagreeing with the fact that Christmas is a time of getting togetherness, the feeling of love, bonding and sharing of gifts with loved ones and families and friends. This is practically what Christmas is all about and not the recently what is being done by the excessive and extravagant spending people now take to during Christmas crises.

9 years ago

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jasminemax

jasminemax

I don't think so. Because, in our place christmas is always celebrated in a simple manner. They used to decorate the roads with different colour papers and plastic stars. It's always a pleasent sight.

They used to send plum cake to all neighbours. And finally, christmas is great for shopping, because we get amazing offers.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Well, it's definitely good that you and your family as well as town people still understand what real Christmas still is because most people have actually lost the true conceptual meaning of what Christmas is all about.

9 years ago

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DarthHazard

DarthHazard

I don't see a problem with it to be honest. I think the reason why it has got like that is because of how a lot of different religions know "celebrate" Christmas. I mean, even if you are not that religious, you tend to buy presents for each other. We buy quite a lot of expensive presents for each other and we enjoy the massive family meals as well. But we also do go to mass on the 24th. It's one of those holidays that you can truly enjoy with your family which is why a lot of people like to celebrate it.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

You may probably not have an issue with extravagant spending during Christmas seasons maybe because you are wealthy enough to spend as you see fit but this is absolutely wrong. You can invest your extravagant spending on the less privileged that needs such assistance.

9 years ago

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Authord

Authord

C'mon, the Savior of the world is born,and i don't see any problem here. The importance of Christmas can not really be overemphasized, it a time for celebration and it's the biggest celebration fest in the world and it's worth it. If you have the money, you spend it big on drinks and meat and all sort of things, it's cool. But the problem is people, who don't have any penny, engaging in crimes and immoral activities to celebrate Christmas, that is very wrong.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

The importance of Christmas is never the issue at hand here, truly Christmas should be valued more than any kind of Celebrations we have today because of the significance it holds particularly on our salvation.

The issue at hand here is how people go about spending and actually celebrating during Christmas seasons. Most times, people have turned Christmas to be a commercialized holidays where much of people's interest now hindges on excessive extravagant spending.

9 years ago

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AmieBotella

AmieBotella

Reading some of the comments here made me want to point out one thing-- and that is, how you celebrate an occasion really depends on what is inside your heart and conviction. Some people reserve their energy, money and time to prepare themselves for an occasion. Usually it is the yuletide season. I, myself plan on this joyous occasion because it gives so much joy to me and my family to celebrate together. I write my menu that I will prepare, I have a gift list for family and friends and I buy gifts for myself also. but it does not necessarily mean I over emphasize Christmas. It may probably look that way to others but for me, this brings joy to me and the people I cherish. While the world turns brighter on this season because of left and right advertisements, I don't see anything wrong with it as long as you know what you want and does not get easily swayed by it. The market world will grab the opportunity to make more profits because I believe I am not the only one who goes out and shop. But there's a wonderful thing given to all of us, and that is called CHOICE. We can choose to just stay at home and celebrate solemnly or go with the rest of the world and party. But i don't think it is the time to become a Scrooge just because you believe holiday celebration now is overemphasized.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Definitely, it's all about ones choice that counts during Christmas seasons and it's celebrations, but it's always nice to make a right choice especially when it comes to how one goes about spending during Christmas. If you are feeling that you have enough to spend and waste during Christmas, channel it to helping the less privileged.

9 years ago

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pizzalover

pizzalover

This is a holiday to spend quality time with the family and give things to people who don't have anything, not even a house.
In my country, we help homeless people every time we can, especially on Christmas. We spend money on them and to buy food also. On Christmas, we eat a lot from chicken salad, hallacas to pork. Hallacas is a traditional food here in Venezuela. All the Venezuelan love it. All the food that we couldn't we give it to homeless people.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Christmas celebrations should center on love, bonding and sharing of gifts with ones family and friends. It should be a time and season of getting together with families, creating good memories and not be irrational with spending, even to the extent of borrowing money just to impress people.

9 years ago

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jeiyyy

jeiyyy

I'm from a country which celebrates the Christmas the longest.Like september is the start of purchasing Christmas decor and decorating our houses.its one of the event's we are all looking forward to, not because it has something to do with religions and stuff well maybe it has but for us the main reason or essence of Christmas is the family reunions or bondings.We have a busy lifestyle and it's been quite hard for a lot of people to cope up in our fast paced society so a day with our family,relaxing and having a pleasant talk's without care about how our society is for a meantime is great.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Most Christian community actually starts getting in the mood for Christmas right from September. It's actually called the "ember" month season, meaning that Christmas is just within reach. So they tend to start preparing for Christmas at such time. Although some goes out to their to over do things, which is why it's being stressed here that people mind how they go about spreading extravagantly on irrelevant things during Christmas.

9 years ago

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maecyrish

maecyrish

Here in my country-Philippines I believe all Filipinos would agree as well that we give so much attention to Christmas. Knowing that Filipinos do have the longest Christmas celebration is a proof. I would not say that it's over-emphasized because it has been our habit. Charity works, giving presents has been our habit. And above all, Christmas is the perfect time to bond woth other family members. I would always love Christmas!

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

I do understand that Philippines certainly takes Christmas celebrations a lot more serious than any other group of people. Although, some of them do understand what and how Christmas should be celebrated, especially in doing charity works and giving gifts to both the less privileged and family and friends.

9 years ago

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xerlan777

xerlan777

No, Christmas is not overemphasize. It is one of the most important celebration on majority of people. It just give unconditional joy, unexplained happiness and the feeling of being loved. It may depend on a persons perspective but as far as I believe, Christmas will always be Christmas.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

There is no point arguing if Christmas is going to be Christmas over the coming years, because it's certainly going to be as it's not today that it's existence came into being. The thing being advocated here is that people should go about it the right way in celebrating Christmas. They should look to showing of love to one another, bonding together with families and sharing of gifts and not take on extravagant spending which at the long run puts one in serious debts.

9 years ago

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gladys23

gladys23

Yeah I think so because people now a days celebrate Christmas just for fun and they did not know about what is the meaning and of Christmas and what is the purpose why we are celebrating this holiday they forget about Jesus Christ the reason that we celebrate this holiday I am a Christian and a believer of God people now a days didn't respect Christmas and God that's why you are right. Christmas is now overemphasized because people just think about the expenses or what are they buying for Christmas. You know people Christmas is about God and family it doesn't matter whether you don't have money to celebrate or you are rich. Christmas is about love and care pray for God and don't just think about the expenses.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's actually a wrong perception that people lately have about Christmas. They have practically turned it's awareness to a commercialized holidays where people value and invest more time in buying all sorts of useless unimportant things. They tend to overlook the actual reason why Christmas is celebrated.

9 years ago

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onlineblogger

onlineblogger

Not really. Christmas is the best season of the year for many people. It is the right time to get together and spend time with your family. It is the season of love and giving.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

What you just narrated is exactly how Christmas celebrations should be and not the other way round. Showing of love and care to both families and loved ones, bonding together and sharing of gifts is the best way to celebrate Christmas and not drown oneself in extravagant spending that only leads to debt.

9 years ago

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kielrivera

kielrivera

Every country has their own way to celebrate Chritmas. Here in my home country, Philippines, we love celebrating Christmas. It is our one way to get reunited with relatives and friends. I agreed to the one who posted here, Christmas gives unconditional joy, unexplained happiness and the being of loved. We have one culture here called "Simbang Gabi", if you translate it in English, it is going to church at night. That's one way to get families bond together. I really love when kids and some groups go to your house and sing Christmas carols. I would say celebrating Christmas here in Philippines is the best!

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

No matter the culture of any county or society, and how they celebrate Christmas, none supports being extravagant in spending because it's never going to turn into a healthy outcome as one is definitely going to run into debt and financial crisis.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Wow, I am quite impressed with the turn up of responses from you all. What I can literally deduce from all replies here is that how Christmas is actually celebrated is dependent on the people's way of life and locality.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's not only on their way of life but also their perception of what Christmas is, goes a long way in determining how they individually take to its celebrations.

9 years ago

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Rybert21

Rybert21

Christmas here in my country, starts when September month is approaching, we have the longest celebration of Christmas, it just gives a good vibes to our fellow citizen to hear some christmas songs playing, some decorations in the house and the lights of the Christmas, it just gives us a sense of relief and joy to feel that something important is coming up and we need to celebrate it, with our loved ones.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

It's refereed to as "ember" month season here. Most people kick off with their Christmas preparation from September, it's at this time that those who have a thing in spending hugely take the court. It's definitely encouraged that people are always warned to be cautious with spending during Christmas seasons in order to avoid unnecessary debt accumulation.

9 years ago

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Keibah2

Keibah2

I think it is a little overemphasized. I know people have to celebrate but modesty is required. Around here you see decorations from around September, the local TV station start to put up ads and people spend a lot of money for show forgetting the true essence. Loving and sharing.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Those little decorations don't really matter that much, because even after the installation of Christmas lights and all, one might still not switch it on until the Christmas day. The reason why it's being stressed here is that people be wise with spending during Christmas seasons in order not to be in debt crisis on the long run after Christmas.

9 years ago

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jaymish

jaymish

I actually don't it is. I think in this world with all the evil things that are going down, like murders, rape, war, floods and famine. We need to harness the power of positivity and happiness , every opportunity that we get. Christmas is one of those occasions where nearly the whole world , comes together to celebrate, the birth of Jesus. Everyone is happy, and almost nothing negative, happens on this day, because everyone, is happy and positive.It's like a magical day. So no I don't think Christmas is overemphasized.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

If it's about sharing of love, gifts, bonding together with families and friends, then Christmas celebrations is carried out in the right manner but if it's focused on spending extravagantly and irrationally simply to impress people, then it's not Christmas that it's being celebrated but ones ego.

9 years ago

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wilkan80

wilkan80

Christmas is a time for families to come together to reflect and take stock of the year that was. But the businesspeople saw an opportunity where they can market their products and now it is made as the biggest marketing season of the year. Chrismas is when Christians are celebrating the birth of baby Jesus. When people started to exchange gifts, that's when an opportunity appeared and they seized it.

9 years ago

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PedroP

PedroP

Pretty much this. The gifts thing is not the problem in my opinion but rather the way how people forgot the origin of the date and only associate it with the presents

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

Exactly, people just most likely mare Christmas celebrations with how they see it lately. Most times, people's conception about Christmas have now changed to being about Jesus Christ birth to a commercialized holidays.

9 years ago

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Heatman6190

Heatman6190

This is actually the sharing of love, affection and care. It's extremely important that Christmas is celebrated this way and not to take up heavy spending to impress man instead of God.

9 years ago

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