Christmas and New Year's Day

Christmas and New Year’s Day 

mark both a conclusion and a fresh start. 

The conclusion holds cherished memories, 

while the new beginning is filled with promise.

 

During chilly winter days, 

a wave of love flows in, 

like a gift that ignites joy within us.

A thermos filled with warmth comforts the body.

A keepsake album preserves moments in our hearts.

 

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Xiaopeng clutches the album, 

as if he’s unlocking a portal to joy. 

Within its pages, he sees the faces of himself and his friends, 

each photo a shining star illuminating the night sky of his memories.

Grandpa’s smile is etched in time, as he chuckles softly, saying, “This album is truly wonderful.” It captures moments so that they may never fade away.

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Siqi’s smile radiates the spirit of the moment, 

like a spring flower quietly blossoming, 

gentle enough to soften time and warm the heart. 

Although Siqi’s parents are deaf-mute, they make every effort to convey their emotions. 

Their world may be devoid of sound, yet it overflows with love and deep connection. In that moment, words lose their significance, and love weaves its way between us.

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Ziwei cradles the thermos, examining it from every angle, as if it were a piece of sunshine radiating joy. With a heartfelt "thank you," she expresses deep gratitude that comes straight from her soul. Her hands work wonders. A small Christmas tree seems to guard the secrets of winter and her innermost thoughts. The vibrant artwork shines brilliantly within the modest rural home, embodying the starlight that flows through her heart, carrying the dreams of her childhood and the real meaning of life’s beauty. 

Grandpa and Grandma reciprocate all the kindness with genuine appreciation. Their gift to us of bundles of green onions, still clinging to the earth, speaks louder than any words could, embodying the true meaning of "gratefulness."

 

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Shuyao finally received the computer she had eagerly anticipated day and night. Her eyes sparkled like stars, radiating pure joy and a longing for the future. It was her gateway to new knowledge, a tiny bridge leading her toward her dreams. 

From Chinese to mathematics, her day turned into night, as knowledge took root and blossomed within her cozy home. She diligently learned how to power it up, while also discovering how to nurture her aspirations.

 

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Xiaofang and her father sat together in their cozy home, the fire crackling cheerfully, transforming their small space into a universe filled with warmth. 

The Christmas thermos, photos capturing her family adventures in Beijing, and a brand-new picture book combined to celebrate the beauty and hope of life. 

The memories captured in the photos felt as if they happened yesterday, while the new picture book acted as a window, opening to a different world. 

Xiaofang shared that the picture book had taken root in her mind, becoming stars that twinkle at night, guiding her and her sister's dreams.

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When Zenan excitedly pointed to the album and exclaimed "I," the chill in the room melted away. The volunteers presented Zenan with a gift, and her laughter filled the shabby space, a gentle reminder of how simple happiness can be. 

And then there were Jiaxin, Xiaozhe, Weixiang… 

 

Each child radiated a light,  

cutting through the fog of life and flourishing into the future. 

 

A gift is more than just an object; 

it embodies the warmth of kindness. 

It travels through the biting cold, 

across mountains and rivers, 

ultimately reaching the hearts of every child, becoming a lasting glow that will never fade.

 

A gift represents love, cherished memories, hope, and a quiet yet meaningful exchange of holiday feelings. 

 

In the chill of winter, love flourishes, and hope sparkles within even the smallest of efforts.