When most of us think of Christmas, the image of Santa Claus immediately comes to mind. While he's a fun sort of character to have in our movies and on our Christmas cards, I think that a lot of people mistakenly think that this mascot is where feelings of "Christmas magic" or "Christmas spirit" originates.
Sometimes, Santa becomes so dominant that we forget that there's more to Christmas than a man in a red coat. Not to mention, there's the bizarre cultural pressure parents are under to present Santa as a real person, lest they ruin the "Christmas magic" for their children.
This in mind, here is my list of the reasons why we feel "Christmas magic" - an exploration of where it really comes from, and why we feel it the way we do.
1) The light of Christ
That love that inspired our Savior to be born to this world and ultimately die for us can be felt very strongly at the time of year we celebrate His birth. That "magic" that we're feeling is really love and hope.
2) Feeling loved
Similarly, feelings of unconditional love from our families and other people who care about us can often be felt more clearly around Christmastime.
3) Beauty
When we take in something beautiful, it may make our hearts feel lighter - which can feel like "magic." There are so many beautiful things to see at this time of year that it's no wonder that we feel this uplift often.
4) Novelty
Sometimes we get so used to our everyday lives that a change in routine can feel just slightly surreal - "magic."