“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
(Matthew 6:19-20)
Our modern lives are constantly surrounded by messages encouraging us to buy, achieve, and accumulate. These voices promise happiness wrapped in material things, yet they often leave us feeling unfulfilled, searching for something deeper. As Christmas approaches, let us pause and be reminded of what truly nourishes our souls.
The endless stream of advertisements can make our desires feel less like genuine longings and more like a carefully crafted melody orchestrated by marketers and media. We are told that joy, success, and contentment lie just beyond the next purchase or achievement. Terms like “limited edition” or “exclusive” tap into our fear of missing out (FOMO), while aspirational branding makes us associate products with a better version of ourselves. This manipulation, the power of suggestion, often confuses our wants with our true needs and results in a vicious cycle of craving and discontentment that overshadows the blessings already in our lives. But what if we chose to step back from this relentless noise? Could we uncover the difference between our true needs and the wants shaped by external influences? Most importantly, can we rediscover a joy that is not bound to the material world but instead rooted in something eternal?
It breaks my heart to see so many people only find time to reflect on the essence of true joy around Christmas time, instead of living more meaningful lives all year round. Yes, Christmas is a time to celebrate, but also to embrace happiness which doesn’t stem from our material possessions, but from within. Let us reclaim this internal joy by shifting our focus from external validation to internal fulfilment, although you will surely ask me “OK smarty pants, easier said than done. Where do we start?” How about with these five pillars:
- Mindfulness
- Gratitude
- Intentional Consumption
- Connection
- Creativity and Purpose
Desire itself is not the enemy. It is natural to seek comfort, beauty, and joy in life. The true challenge lies in aligning our desires with what is genuine and meaningful, rather than succumbing to the noise of external pressures. As we approach another Christmas season often overshadowed by materialism, let us hold onto this truth: happiness is not something we purchase—it is something we nurture within. The absence of material things does not leave us empty; instead, it creates a sacred space to rediscover the profound richness that already resides in our hearts.
Christmas offers a chance to realign our desires with what truly matters. So let us celebrate presence, not presents, simplify, serve, remember that kindness matters, will always matter, and should be spontaneous and selfless.
I have seen the Lord
Where the sun awakens the day,
Where the road winds on its way,
Where the fields are sweet with hay,
I have seen the Lord.
Where the stars shine in the sky,
Where the streets so peaceful lie,
Where the darkness is no nigh,
I have seen the Lord.
The Lord is here,
The Lord is there,
The Lord is everywhere.
The Lord is high,
The Lord is low,
The Lord is on the paths I go.
Prayer by David Adam
‘Times and Seasons: modern prayers in the Celtic tradition.’
I wish you a Merry Christmas and remain eternally grateful for your continued presence in this space. Sending you light and peace.
New from The Esoteric Frog:
Feng Shui Tips: Christmas Decorations
New FrogSpirit Coaching: The Passion vs. Purpose Series
The Passion vs. Purpose Series I: An Inspired Life for 18-25
The Passion vs. Purpose Series II: Finding Your North Start after 40
The Passion vs. Purpose Series III: Redefining Life after 55
FrogDiva Thoughts 
I am gluing to read and reread . In my work , I help push consumerism. I totally understand your words . I try hard to not practice what I preach . Thanks for sharing your words of wisdom . Merry Christmas!! 🎄
Get Outlook for iOShttps://aka.ms/o0ukef
Thank you for such a lovely comment! Wishing you a very merry Christmas and blessed moments.