I love the holiday season. The closeness that it brings to family and friends. The beautiful energy and enthusiasm that surrounds everyone during this time of year. And the joy and hope one feels in conjunction with this day of new beginnings, peace and good will.

However, if I were to be brutally honest with myself and my readers, I would point out that I have always struggled with the religious aspect of this holiday season. Recognizing my uneasiness that comes with this festive season I decided to dive into the reason why. In doing so, I do not mean to offend anyone. I am merely speaking my truth towards this wonderful holiday.

This sacred holiday recognizes the birth of a Messiah. The term messiah is defined as ‘one who is anticipated as, regarded as, or professes to be a liberator. One who helps to set people free from bondage.’

Do I believe Jesus was a messiah? Yes, I actually do. Was he anticipated, regarded as, or professed to be a liberator? Yes, he truly was. Has he helped set people free from bondage? Well, I believe he certainly showed the way. His messages were encrypted with the wisdom of the ages and his examples both miraculous and profound.

In my heart, I know this soul energy called Jesus (Yeshua) and he is an important part of my life. I know for a fact he came into this world to demonstrate the power we hold within ourselves to make change in this world, create miracles and to experience life to our fullest potential.

So why is it that I am so bothered by this holiday? Mostly because the message so bravely delivered is still so vastly misunderstood. So many people are looking for an external source to forgive their sins, save their soul and lead them down the path of enlightenment. So many people are living in the past and expecting a savior to fulfill the prophecy of enlightenment for everyone. And yes, he certainly has helped many people with his teachings (and continues to do so to this very day), but no one should have to take full responsibility for everyone. Honestly, I feel that is an abomination to put that much expectation or responsibility on one single soul.

The rapture of divine growth can only be achieved by going within. By looking to forgive your own sins, grow your own soul, and confidently move down your own path of enlightenment. We all hold the potential within us to live in a heart-centred space towards all of humanity. We all have the power within us to create miracles, manifest change, and bring peace unto this world. We all hold the potential to be proactive in our own development and spiritual growth; to ascend into higher realms of being and to ultimately achieve heaven here on earth.

This holiday season, in honour of the original liberator and more importantly in honour of each other, I challenge more people to rise to the occasion. This Christmas allow yourself to truly live and learn by the true teachings of the messiah. Let yourself BE the Joy to the World. We can and we will.

Namaste,

Lauren Heistad