The Spirit of Christmas and the Beginning of Abbotsford Connect

By Jenny Holly Hansen | Langley News | December 10, 2025

Two weeks before Christmas, something special happens in our communities. The world feels softer. Conversations become a little warmer. We hold doors open a moment longer. We look for small ways to brighten someone else’s day. It’s a season that gently reminds us that giving isn’t just something we do—it’s something that transforms us.

And in this moment of reflection and generosity, I find myself thinking about the start of Abbotsford Connect, our new monthly gathering built for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community builders. In many ways, the spirit of Christmas and the mission of Abbotsford Connect are beautifully aligned: we gain the most during the experience of giving.

The Gift of Showing Up for One Another

Christmas teaches us that giving is not measured by the size of the gift but by the intention behind it. A handwritten card, a shared story, a seat saved at the table—these are the moments that stay with us.

Similarly, Abbotsford Connect is not about transactions or business cards. It’s about creating a space where people feel welcomed, valued, and encouraged to bring their authentic selves. When you show up with the intention to listen, support, and collaborate, you give others the confidence to do the same.

In that exchange, something powerful happens: Everyone leaves richer than they arrived.

Connection as a Form of Generosity

Generosity isn’t only about giving materially—it’s also about giving attention, giving guidance, giving encouragement. In a world where everyone is moving quickly, slowing down long enough to truly connect is a gift in itself.

At Abbotsford Connect, every conversation is an opportunity to invest in someone else’s success. Each introduction has the potential to spark a partnership, solve a challenge, or open a new door. When we give our time and expertise freely, we lift the entire community.

And just like Christmas, that spirit of connection expands far beyond one meeting or one evening. It becomes a ripple of goodwill that touches businesses, families, and the broader Abbotsford community.

A Seat at the Table—even if it’s Not Christmas Dinner

While you may not be at my table for Christmas dinner this year, I hope you’ll join me at another table—one built for collaboration, conversation, and community impact.

Abbotsford Connect will host early dinner gatherings each month, giving us a dedicated space to share ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen the relationships that make our city a thriving place to live and do business.

The table is set; the seats are open; and the spirit of Christmas—generosity, togetherness, growth—is already woven into its foundation.

Let’s Build Something Meaningful Together

As the year winds down and the holidays draw near, I’m excited for what’s ahead. Abbotsford is a city of builders, dreamers, and doers, and Abbotsford Connect is our opportunity to come together and shape the future with intention.

If the spirit of Christmas inspires us to give more freely, then let it also inspire us to connect more deeply.

I hope you’ll join us. The gift of community is waiting.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Navacord. With 19 years experience, she will well versed in the technical aspects of business insurance coverages.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or hello@jennyhollyhansen.ca             

Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  

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