The Christmas Season

The holiday season is in full swing! The houses in our neighborhood are covered in lights, and we’ve already watched Elf, White Christmas, and The Santa Claus. My essential oil diffuser is constantly pumping out a cheery mixture of orange, cinnamon, and spruce. And I stepped up my decorating game this year by making a dried orange garland and hanging it from our mantle.

I got married earlier this year, so my family has grown to include my husband’s. In the past, we’ve each handled the gifts for our own families, but this year, I decided to take on that responsibility for myself.

And y’all, it’s stressful. There’s so much joy in choosing gifts for all of our loved ones. But the stores have been crazy since Thanksgiving. And because we’re sending gifts to other states, I’ve waited in some long lines at the post office.

As I’ve observed all of these stressed-out people (myself included) working so hard to purchase gifts for their friends and family, I’m wondering if it’s worth it. I can only recall a few of the Christmas gifts I’ve received over the years, even though I know how much time and effort my parents and grandparents put into choosing and wrapping them. The gifts are just not what has stuck in my mind about this season.

The Holiday Spirit

What I do remember, though, is the feeling of the holidays. I remember my family’s tradition of seeing A Christmas Carol live every year. And I can perfectly picture the big blue lights my grandparents put on their tree. I remember snuggling on the couch with my sisters to watch our favorite holiday films. And reuniting with our grandparents to ski over the winter holidays are some of my fondest memories.

So while gifts may bring joy and excitement in the moment, they’re not what keep us coming back to the holidays year after year. Perhaps instead of focusing on the stuff we give each other this season, we can concentrate on giving love and making memories. Here are a few ways to do that.

Make Presents Really Meaningful

I don’t want to downplay that gifts are a way that we show each other love. They are an important way to demonstrate our affection, especially if a gift really shows that you understand the receiver.

So instead of piling gifts under the tree, just choose a few that show how much you know and love your family and friends. Handmade gifts are another way of showing people how important they are to you.

Donate to a Meaningful Cause

Use the money you save by not buying every possible gift to donate to an organization that’s meaningful to you and your family. It could be ensuring that kids in foster care have gifts for the holidays, contributing to building a well for an area that doesn’t have clean water, or any other cause that you’ve felt passionate about this year.

Start a New Tradition

I don’t think I’m alone in remembering the feeling of the holidays and time with my family more than anything else. And I think that’s important for both children and adults. So no matter who you’re spending the holidays with this year, consider starting a new tradition, a fun way for you to spend time together during the height of the holidays. My family loves to drive around to see the lights and bake a traditional Croatian bread called povitica.

Remember the Meaning of the Season

These holidays have a special meaning behind our modern celebrations. Many people celebrate winter holidays connected to their religious traditions. Others celebrate the winter solstice and an opportunity to bring light into the darkness of the coldest months.

Regardless of your celebration, take some time to remember and talk about why your family celebrates the holiday. It will make this time feel more meaningful for everyone.

No matter how you choose to do it, make sure that love is the focus of your holidays this year. Presents are nice, but the kindness we show each other will last longer than any gift we can unwrap.