The setting for Christmas in North Dakota is quite different than the setting depicted in the traditional Nativity scene of the first Christmas.

That setting is a half-open stable where the Christ Child’s birth took place, with Wise Men from the East arriving on camels and shepherds who were in the field watching their flock by night.

Our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day is the setting for groups of family members and/or friends attending church services, enjoying a dinner feast on the table at home and exchanging gifts among each other.

In an unscientific poll conducted by The Minot Daily News this past week, 65.5% of those who voted said family gatherings were their favorite Christmas tradition followed by church services, 17.36%; buying and giving gifts, 10.42%; and decorating the Christmas tree, 9.72%.

Christmas is a time of giving, of joy, of happiness, but for some it can be a time of sadness and loneliness.

Not everyone has family members living nearby. If you know of someone who will be alone this Christmas, you could invite them to join your family for Christmas activities, provide them a meal at their home or call them to visit.

If you know of someone living in an assisted living facility or nursing home who might be alone, go to see them and spend time with them. It will bring joy to them to have company.

Many local groups and organizations have been holding events to raise funds and collect other donations to help those in need. If you know of someone in need, this is a good time to help them.

Christmas is also a time of hope and peace. Each of us can make it the best and carry this magical time into the new year. Truly Christmas can be all year long.

We wish you a Merry Christmas.