Over the past few days, I have been blessed to spend time with my family. These moments have reminded me of what truly matters — the people we hold close to, the values that guide us, and the strength we find in relationships.

In many ways, these reflections have deepened my appreciation and gratitude for Christmas. While this season is mostly focused on shopping and giving gifts — which are great — I want to remind everyone of what this season is really all about. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ.

Our lives, situations, country and world are far from perfect. There are always challenges and struggles we face both personally and collectively. The good news of Christmas is that even when the world or our circumstances change, the message of Christmas remains the same.

That message is that God’s Son, Jesus, came into the world to give us love, hope and joy by teaching us true values, such as compassion, empathy that leads to inclusion, and respect for the dignity of each person.

This message is timeless; it doesn’t change from year to year. When there is so much bad news and devastation in the world, this is good news worth pondering and celebrating.

Whenever we think of our own circumstances which make us question rather than give thanks, let us take a moment to step back and reflect. There was no royal welcome in a palace for Jesus, the Son of God. Instead, on his birth, he was sleeping on a trough, surrounded by animals and tired shepherds, not royal attendants.

As he grew older, Jesus experienced loneliness, baseless opposition, grief, hunger, anger, hypocrisy and more. He came into the world to experience life as a human; and to live among people and understand their struggles and pains.

This reflection allows us to put things in perspective. Hardships are inevitable parts of life, and regardless of how difficult our personal situation is, there are many others who are facing tougher challenges.

If Jesus can come down from Heaven and live among us again, then maybe we can be more aware of people in need of a helping of blessings and grace, which we, limited as we are, can nonetheless provide to one another.

As we celebrate this season, we are also closing the current year and soon will open the new year. I wish to share five lessons I learned from the season which I want to incorporate into my life.

Accept the responsibility attached to our position

Every decision we face will be difficult and deeply personal, but it also has profound effects on others. Our position carries with it responsibilities, and these responsibilities are not just for ourselves but for others as well. Carry this weight with integrity and with acting decisively.

Speak with empathy

Words matter. Be direct, honest and thoughtful in every conversation, especially when talking to the less fortunate. Find the middle ground between being forceful and compassionate. Both are necessary to achieve trust and maintain dignity.

Lead by example

People observe not just what we do but also our disposition when doing so. Let us then commit to honesty, transparency, fairness, and consistency in everything we do. Display behavior that others may emulate.

Focus on execution not complication

Our success and the success of others will depend on how well we execute. Avoid overcomplicating, focus with clear priorities, impactful actions, and empowering individuals around us; and lastly-.

Provide certainty

and clarity

Uncertainty is inevitable especially for matters that are difficult to control, but certainty and clarity are choices we can make for matters that we can control. Be clear about what is known, the responses we make, and the core values that guide us.

These five lessons are the ones I learned from reflection during this season and decided to bring with me for next year in the hope of positively impacting those around me. Christmas is not every day, but living these lessons out consistently may provide hope to others daily.