Thursday, December 22, 2011

Homonym Christmas Report

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Homonym Christmas Report


My colleagues and I submit to you this report after a careful and in-depth study using Palaeographists (those who study ancient writings), Anthropologists, (study of humankind), Papyrologists (study of ancient writings on papyrus).

And we hereby declare that an altercation to a word, a typo, if you will, has resulted in a delusion and distortion. The central theme and purpose of Christmas has been altered from its original and intended purpose.

Findings:

Our preliminary findings uncovered a jolly bearded fellow, quite plump indeed, flying reindeer delivering Old Saint Nick, as he’s called, to housetops, whereby he somehow manages to ascend and descend chimneys to deliver presents to all good boys and girls, and he doesn’t even get his red suit dirty. (Due to the fact that we have not been employed to research the nature of these events we will neither confirm nor deny the validity of such).

Our keen observance deduces that Christmas has become a celebration of giving of presents. By whatever the means; whether by above mentioned, jolly bearded fellow, or by over extending the master card and visa, in either case, the main purpose appears to be the giving of presents – and for many the reception of presents if of primary importance.

Our findings have determined that a homonym (words that sound the same, but are spelled differently and have different meanings) has caused a veering from the intended path and purpose of the original meaning of Christmas.

Prior to the very first Christmas ancient documents have clearly stated, the reason for the season is the word Immanuel; עִמָּנוּאֵל (עימנואל) in Hebrew, also spelled, Emanuel or Imanuel meaning: God with us; His Presence.

Due to the homonymic error humankind has replaced presents for Presence. Sounds the same, different meanings entirely.

Christmas Stress Syndrome (CSS): We have observed noted behavioral and psychological problems directly stemming from this diversion from Presence to presents. The increased pressure to provide presents and party has notably increased stress levels resulting in a substantial rise in depression and suicide during this period.

Conclusion:

We conclude that the proper methodology to reverse the trajectory of the Christmas Stress Syndrome (CSS) is to return to the original purpose and meaning of the word we mistook for presents. Immanuel, עִמָּנוּאֵל (עימנואל), Emanuel, Imanuel; God with us; The Presence Of God.

If we will change our function, plan and purpose from presents to a celebration of His Presence, we will be able to change Christmas Stress Syndrome into Christmas Phenomenal Phenomena. And then, if we choose to give a gift to another, we will be free to oblige with a heart full of, Joy to the World.

It doesn’t matter if we give many presents or few. The kids remember our presence more than our presentsAnd that is what God did when He started this whole Christmas phenomena. He gave His Presence. Now let's go and do the same.

Remember, don't sweat the small presents just Enjoy His Presence.


Merry Christmas to all and to all a God bless us everyone.
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5 comments:

caryjo said...

WOW!!! So true, of course for many of us, but also so very well written and attention-catching. Thanks. You helped me begin my day with a grin and a "YES!!".

caryjo said...

Don't know if cyberspace hit me again, but mostly I just wanted to tell you that I got a good smile out of this and was blessed that you see and share things so succinctly. No one could just wonder what you meant. Blessings.

Doug Spurling said...

Thanks Caryjo, I just got back from a 5 hr road trip dropping some friends off at the airport, and feeling kinda beat...then,getting your comments gave me an encouraging lift. I pray your Christmas is filled with Christ mas Presence

S. Etole said...

May your Christmas be blessed with a double-dose of that presence which is the best present of all. Blessings to you and yours.

Doug Spurling said...

Thank you Susan, I've been hearing some good things about you :-) I pray even if it's cold up there you are warmed with the Presence of His Love. Merry Christmas