Facts about christmas

The word Christmas is Old English, a contraction of Christ's Mass. (I can bet we all thought it was a substitute for party or sweets or something)

"Jingle Bells" was first written for Thanksgiving and then became one of the most popular Christmas songs.(Errr...???)

Holly berries are poisonous (Don't even dream of getting the real thing for decoration)

Santa Clause is the biggest mascot the world ever got. Coca Cola created him.(hmm.... now we know the reason for the paunch)

If you received all of the gifts in the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas", you would receive 364 presents.(I am sure this song was also part of a marketing stunt)

Clearing up a common misconception, in Greek, X means Christ. That is where the word "X-Mas" comes from. Not because someone took the "Christ" out of Christmas. (Atheists... listening??)

On the day of Christmas it is considered sacred to exchange kisses beneath mistletoe tree. Mistletoe was once considered the symbol of peace and friendship. That is why kissing one’s loved one on the day of Christmas is considered merry for the relationship.(So it isn't a way of proposing??)

The poinsettia is a traditional Christmas flower. In Mexico (its original birthplace), the poinsettia is known as the "Flower of the Holy Night".(Glad we finally have a name to the "Christmas flower")

In many households there is a tradition of hiding some ornament or article in the pudding. What one finds in the pudding signifies upcoming fortune.(I found a rum soaked raisin in mine. I am doomed)

Christmas is not a festival. It is the Birthday of Jesus. (What gift did you buy for him this year, eh?)

Points to Ponder

1. Whatever inspires also guides and protects

2. You spent your life to become the person you are right now. Was it worth it?

3. Here's a test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: If you're alive it isn't?

4. Your conscience is the measure of the honesty of your selfishness. Listen to it carefully.

5. All hurdles always come with their rewards. You encounter hurdles because you like to be rewarded.

6. Argue for your limitations, and rest assured they will be yours.

7. Disaster is change. It is an opportunity that you aren't used to.

8. Before you succeed, something important must be at risk.

9. Nothing forces you to learn. You will learn when you want to.

10. A small choice today will make a huge difference tomorrow.

All runs in the family

As we prepare for Christmas let us all put down a to do list of "Things to do". As you meticulously pen down details of Christmas sweets, Decorations, Christmas shopping, Gifts... let us not forget the most important "Thing to do". The thing that we celebrate Christmas for. The Family!
Christmas is not only about the birth of our Saviour, but it also signifies the birth of the important institution, the family. Most of us have been blessed with this gift. While some of us have strayed away from it, others have either lost it in part or whole. What we call family goes way beyond just our parents, siblings and children. It goes into a space where we feel "at home". The people that fill that home, could range from friends or even just that loved one. The love for family can never be measured by that party you throw for a gathering or gifts that you buy for them. It is by the love that you shower them with. It is by that strong bond or connection that you have with these people.
This Christmas, let us strive to make a strong connect with our own families. Bury grudges, accept limitations and strengthen the bond. Jesus had his, and has blessed us with our own. Let us show them that you care.