Dashing through the snow, on a one horse open sleigh, O’er the fields we go, laughing all the way, NO, NO, NO. Every year it feels like the holidays make their inevitable appearance earlier and earlier. What used to occur in early November is now a staple at the end of August. What happened to enjoying the leaves falling, pumpkin flavored things, and awaiting the first snow fall without the pressure of gifts, parties, outfits, and family drama.
Many people think that everyone loves the holidays, but for many they are also the worst. If you have a lot of family, you need to break the bank. If you are low on funds you become resentful of those others that have funds, and if you do not celebrate at all, you feel left out in December. Not everyone celebrates Christmas, Kwanzaa, or Hanukkah, but everyone definitely enjoys getting the time off. That is if you are lucky enough to have the time off.
As a child, you feel the essence of the exciting holiday of Christmas. Christmas carols and the many things that made the holidays joyful now only serve as a reminder of the festivity that you no longer find joy in.
The older you get the more you come to the realization that the holidays are a bit pointless. Christmas cheer, trees, gifts, and waking up at 6 a.m. or earlier just to be able to open gifts has overtaken what should be at the forefront of this. Being surrounded by friends and family is what we should all focus on.
The holidays come and go, presents come and go, but the precious memories are here to stay. Make memories that matter with all the people we love and care about, including your friends and family. Keeping what matters close is what is important and not just focusing on the commercialized part of things.
The holiday in general has made a 180 from what it is truly about. Yes, it is amazing to get new things and eat a bunch, but how about using the time to be grateful. Remember to think about helping those in need and taking a moment to reset and get ready for the new year.
