22 key words from the article (reference)
people, especially well-known or important people
"When we think about Christmas, we often picture two familiar figures: Jesus Christ and Santa Claus."
having greater significance or deeper purpose
"Christmas becomes stronger and more meaningful because these two traditions work side by side."
customs or beliefs that are passed down over time
"Christmas becomes stronger and more meaningful because these two traditions work side by side."
next to each other; together, in cooperation
"Christmas becomes stronger and more meaningful because these two traditions work side by side."
relating to moral principles and values of right and wrong
"These ideas form the ethical heart of the season."
to reduce one's speed or pace; to become less rushed
"They remind us to slow down, to think about kindness, and to focus on what truly matters."
to give full attention or concentrate on something
"They remind us to slow down, to think about kindness, and to focus on what truly matters."
the origin or source of something
"Santa Claus may seem like a playful character, but his roots point to a very real person: St. Nicholas."
periods of one hundred years
"Over many centuries, this story grew into the modern Santa Claus, who represents joyful generosity."
the quality of being kind and willing to give freely
"Over many centuries, this story grew into the modern Santa Claus, who represents joyful generosity."
a mixture or combination of two or more things
"Today, Christmas is a blend of these two influences."
things or people that have an effect on how something develops
"Today, Christmas is a blend of these two influences."
recognition and enjoyment of the value of something; gratitude
"Giving someone a present is a simple but powerful way to show love, care, and appreciation."
to inspire someone with confidence or support to do something
"The teachings of Christ encourage us to extend kindness to our whole community."
organizations set up to help those in need
"That is why we see so many people volunteering, donating to charities, preparing meals for those who are alone."
to establish a connection with someone or something again
"That is why we see so many people ... reaching out to reconnect with friends and neighbors."
being the only one of its kind; special and unlike anything else
"What makes Christmas unique is how well these two traditions fit together."
to combine or match well with each other
"What makes Christmas unique is how well these two traditions fit together."
serious thought or consideration about something
"The result is a holiday that encourages both reflection and action."
to convey or communicate a thought or feeling
"It asks us not only to feel kindness but also to express it in the small, everyday moments."
to continue to exist over a long period of time; to last
"Christmas continues to endure because it blends these ideas seamlessly."
smoothly and without any noticeable interruption or break
"Christmas continues to endure because it blends these ideas seamlessly."