Editorial Update: Love the Giver More Than the Gift

As the Christmas season approaches, I want to talk about something that’s been on my heart lately. For some of us, Christmas can bring a whirlwind of emotions. It’s the season of togetherness, yet some of us may find ourselves alone. It’s the season of giving, but what if finances are tight, and those perfectly wrapped gifts we see on Instagram just aren’t in the cards this year?

First, I want to say this: it’s okay. It’s okay if your Christmas doesn’t look like a Hallmark movie. It’s okay to spend the holidays in quiet reflection. It’s okay to give yourself grace if your budget can’t stretch for extravagant presents.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the quote, “Love the giver more than the gift.” How often do we measure our worth—or our holiday success—by the things we can give or receive? But when you think about it, what do you really cherish about Christmas? Is it the gift you unwrapped five years ago or the person who gave it to you?

For me, some of my most cherished holiday memories aren’t tied to presents. I think of laughter echoing through the house, the warm hug of a loved one I hadn’t seen in months, the quiet moments spent watching the snowfall while sipping hot cocoa. Those moments remind me that love isn’t something you can wrap in a box.

If you’re spending Christmas alone this year, I want to remind you: you are enough. Solitude can be a beautiful gift in itself. Use the time to reconnect with what fills your heart with joy. Watch your favorite movie, cook yourself a comforting meal, or write a letter to your future self. And if you feel like the world’s silence on Christmas morning is deafening, know that somewhere, someone is holding you in their thoughts. Maybe even me, right now, as I write this.

If you’re worried about not being able to afford gifts, let’s reframe what giving can look like. A heartfelt note, a batch of homemade cookies, or even a kind word can mean so much more than an expensive gift. It’s the love behind the gesture that counts.

Christmas isn’t about the perfect tree, the fancy dinner, or the stack of presents under the twinkling lights. It’s about love—love for others and, most importantly, love for yourself. Whether your holiday is spent surrounded by family, with a few close friends, or in the quiet company of yourself, remember this: your presence is the most precious gift you can give.

So, this Christmas, let’s celebrate differently. Let’s love the giver more than the gift. And let’s give ourselves the gift of grace, peace, and the reminder that we are always enough—exactly as we are.

What do you think? Does this resonate with you? Let’s start a conversation in the comments—I’d love to hear about the ways you’re celebrating love, even if it looks different this year. 

Wishing you love, light and laughter for the season.