Imagine not exchanging gifts at Christmas. Imagine no Christmas tree, no decorations, and no shopping. For the past three years we have decreased our participation in the commercial side of Christmas. This year we have not spent one thin dime. Christmas still holds a special meaning for us, just not a meaning that includes wasting money on unnecessary things.

What is Minimalism?

It’s a way to escape the excesses of the world around us — the excesses of consumerism, material possessions, clutter, having too much to do, too much debt, too many distractions, too much noise. But too little meaning. Minimalism is a way of eschewing the non-essential in order to focus on what’s truly important, what gives our lives meaning, what gives us joy and value.

By choosing to opt out of the crazy consumerism that has taken over Christmas, we are able to truly focus on what gives our life meaning. Our life together here in paradise, our boat and each other; those are the things that give us joy and value. We will think of friends and family. We will share a potluck dinner with our liveaboard boating friends. We’ll take some time to reflect on how thankful we are to live the way we do. So my friends, you won’t be getting a gift from us this year. We can only offer our sincere friendship. We thank all of you for enhancing our lives.

I won’t attempt to rewrite the “True Meaning of Christmas” story, but we are trying to make Christmas more true for us. No Santa Claus, no elves and no debt. More birth of Jesus, more love in our hearts, and more thanks for our blessings. I still watch Rudolph, and Charlie Brown Christmas. I still enjoy It’s A Wonderful Life. I don’t enjoy the chaos that our society has become, especially at Christmas.

I understand that this choice is not for everyone. However you celebrate this year, I wish you happiness and togetherness. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Leap of Faith.