Used with permission from FMA Focus magazine, Nov. 2023/vol 57, No. 2

The greatest gift we receive at Christmas is the gift of Jesus. But also of great value is the gift of our own life. Every life is valuable. That is why every child deserves the best that we can give them. That is why our responsibility now is to share that life, with the whole world, through evangelization, so that all may welcome this gift we celebrate at Christmas. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is easy to lose sight of who we really are. We get caught up in material pursuits, striving for success, and seeking external validation. Yet, amidst all the chaos, there is a Divine gift waiting to be embraced – the gift of self, bestowed upon us by the Lord.

Every one of us is a unique creation, formed in the image of God. We possess inherent qualities, talents, and capabilities that make us who we are. However, in our quest to conform to societal norms and expectations, we often overlook these precious gifts that the Lord has bestowed upon us. 

The journey of self-discovery begins with an understanding of our own worth. We must realize that we are not defined by our possessions, achievements, or social status. Our worth comes from our very existence as God’s children. We discover that worth by embracing our authentic selves, by acknowledging the inherent beauty of and potential that resides within us. When we recognize and appreciate our own worth, we can start to live a life that is true to ourselves, rather than trying to fit into someone else’s mold.

Welcoming the gift of self requires us to cultivate self-acceptance and self-love. It means embracing our strengths and weaknesses, our successes, and failures, and understanding that they are all part of our unique journey. The Lord has gifted us with the ability to learn, grow, and evolve as individuals. By accepting ourselves unconditionally, we create a fertile ground for personal growth and transformation.

Welcoming the gift of self involves honoring our passions and dreams. Each one of us has been endowed with specific interests, talents, and desires. These are not mere coincidences, but rather intentional gifts from the Divine. When we listen to our hearts and pursue what brings us joy and fulfillment, we align ourselves with the purpose for which we were created. In doing so, we not only find contentment and happiness, but we also contribute our unique gifts to the world, making it a better place. In this journey of self-discovery, we must also remember that we are not alone. The Lord is always with us, guiding and supporting us every step of the way. Through prayer, meditation, and spiritual connection, we can tap into the wisdom and guidance that the Divine offers. It is in this sacred space that we find solace, strength, and the courage to fully embrace the gift of self.