Okay, we're not religious but we still do the "family dinner thing" during the holidays, but with a twist. Instead of Christmas Day, we do it on Christmas Eve, so that we, as a family, can go down on Christmas Day and volunteer with HOSEA HELPS aka HOSEA FEED THE HUNGRY. This year we were able to prepare and distribute more than 5000 meals for the needy in the greater Atlanta area. Other volunteer services were also provided such as shaves and haircuts for the men and 'makeovers' for the women. I've been involved with the organization since I've been here in the Atlanta area (about 9 yrs). It functions year 'round and does great work. We've had volunteer food servers as diverse as Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutumbo to Arthur Blank, owner of Home Depot and the Atlanta Falcons. If you want a 'feel good' experience, check out a volunteer organization in your area and, if possible, get your family (especially your young kids or grandkids) involved. You'll be suprised at how receptive kids are to the concept of volunteerism (as long as it doesn't involve cleaning their room
).
So maybe next year, instead of burping turkey and gravy while testifying about how much you 'luv Jesus', how about going out and showing how much you 'luv' your neighbor in need. I'm pretty sure Jesus would approve.
http://www.wtoc.com/story/30830975/hosea-helps-holds-annual-christmas-dinnerchas