What Christmas Time Means to Me | Christmas Voices of Hope
Irene Lim
Thursday, January 1, 2026
Welcome to Christmas, and to our series, "Christmas Voices of Hope: Stories and Reflections for the Season." This time to celebrate the birth of Christ is full of stories, experiences, and traditions that come to define what the season means for each of us.
To inspire you with hope during this month of waiting and rejoicing, we have invited friends and members of the Salt + Light Media family to share how their Advent and Christmas traditions have marked their own journey, and that of their communities.
Today's reflection was written by Irene Lim, a grade 5 student and daughter of one of our graphic designers, who reflects on the importance of both the fun offered by the season and the deeper spiritual meaning of Jesus' birth.
When I was younger, I mostly saw Christmas as a fun time filled with Santa Claus, presents, and Christmas carols. And to me, it still is! When I was in Grade 2, I learned about saints at school, and my understanding of the topic deepened. I discovered that saints were real people who led faithful lives and performed miracles. When I found out that St. Nicholas had passed away, I felt very confused: I wondered how Santa Claus could still visit us if he were no longer alive.
At first, this discovery made me question what adults had told me. I felt disappointed and upset. For a while, I felt unsure and even somewhat skeptical. As I grew older, however, I came to understand this question more warmly. I learned that St. Nicholas was a real historical figure whose kind generosity inspired the idea of Santa Claus. Even though he is no longer alive, his spirit lives on through acts of kindness and giving. I came to realize that Santa is not meant to be understood literally, but as a symbol of the love and values St. Nicholas showed through his life. This meant it gave me a chance to pray to St. Nicholas.
This discovery helped me reflect more deeply on what Christmas truly means. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, our Saviour. Even as the Son of God, Jesus chose to come into the world as a small and fragile baby. This shows us that real love does not seek attention, but is humble, gentle, and caring.
When I think about St. Nicholas and baby Jesus together, I see a meaningful connection. St. Nicholas followed Jesus' teachings not only in his beliefs but also in his actions. He shared his possessions and gave his life to Jesus. Both showed love quietly, without expecting recognition or reward. I believe this is what makes someone truly valued.
Today, Christmas continues to be a joyful time for my family. My parents still give us fun, special gifts, and we celebrate together. I enjoy it when my mom and dad give me jewelry, stationery, stickers, and charms! And here's a secret—did you know my little brother, Simon, still believes in Santa Claus? Don't tell him the truth! However, I now also think more intentionally about how I can share the joy of Jesus' birth with others. During this season, we all need to feel the Spirit of God. I do this by participating in toy drives to help children in need and donating to food banks so others can enjoy delicious meals.
This Advent felt really meaningful to me this year. At school, I read the First Reading at our Advent Mass. To me, this isn't just a responsibility — it's a welcome offering for baby Jesus. By proclaiming God's Word, I get to prepare my heart and my actions for the coming of baby Jesus. I truly see this as the most wonderful gift I could give as I eagerly waited and prepared for Christmas.
Attending Christmas Eve Mass with my family is also meaningful to me. During Mass, I pray, reflect, and feel a deep sense of peace, happiness, and love. These moments remind me that Christmas is not only about what we receive, but about how we respond to God's gift of Jesus to the world.
This journey has helped me grow in my understanding. I have learned that faith involves asking questions, reflecting deeply, and choosing to love. Christmas now teaches me to live as Jesus and St. Nicholas did — by quietly and sincerely sharing love with others.
And this is what Christmas truly means to me.
This discovery helped me reflect more deeply on what Christmas truly means. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, our Saviour. Even as the Son of God, Jesus chose to come into the world as a small and fragile baby. This shows us that real love does not seek attention, but is humble, gentle, and caring.
When I think about St. Nicholas and baby Jesus together, I see a meaningful connection. St. Nicholas followed Jesus' teachings not only in his beliefs but also in his actions. He shared his possessions and gave his life to Jesus. Both showed love quietly, without expecting recognition or reward. I believe this is what makes someone truly valued.
Today, Christmas continues to be a joyful time for my family. My parents still give us fun, special gifts, and we celebrate together. I enjoy it when my mom and dad give me jewelry, stationery, stickers, and charms! And here's a secret—did you know my little brother, Simon, still believes in Santa Claus? Don't tell him the truth! However, I now also think more intentionally about how I can share the joy of Jesus' birth with others. During this season, we all need to feel the Spirit of God. I do this by participating in toy drives to help children in need and donating to food banks so others can enjoy delicious meals.
This Advent felt really meaningful to me this year. At school, I read the First Reading at our Advent Mass. To me, this isn't just a responsibility — it's a welcome offering for baby Jesus. By proclaiming God's Word, I get to prepare my heart and my actions for the coming of baby Jesus. I truly see this as the most wonderful gift I could give as I eagerly waited and prepared for Christmas.
Attending Christmas Eve Mass with my family is also meaningful to me. During Mass, I pray, reflect, and feel a deep sense of peace, happiness, and love. These moments remind me that Christmas is not only about what we receive, but about how we respond to God's gift of Jesus to the world.
This journey has helped me grow in my understanding. I have learned that faith involves asking questions, reflecting deeply, and choosing to love. Christmas now teaches me to live as Jesus and St. Nicholas did — by quietly and sincerely sharing love with others.
And this is what Christmas truly means to me.
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