It’s that time of year again! The time to go to several stores, searching for the right gift for that person that you do not truly care for (along with a few people do), and spending hundreds in order to obtain that illusive “holiday season.” Honestly, what can you truly say about the holidays that a million Christmas specials haven’t said. However, what we really need to think about is the things that truly go above the commercialism that is inherent in this system of errors. The things that make Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa , or any other holiday that you could possibly imagine, special.
1-That warm fuzzy feeling- There is a reason behind giving gifts to individuals, other than sheer economic or even traditional reasons. If we strip out that overly abundant commercialism there is the feeling of human connection. Giving gifts allow the gift-giver to display their connection with the person in question. They show that they show interest in that person’s life and actually care deeply about that person. This gives both the giver and the receiver a “warm fuzzy feeling,” that shows the good will of man, and the gift doesn’t have to be a physical tangible present. It could be a moment in time that is special for that person, doing something for that person, or just spending a night together on a special day. This day is about human connection, not about material needs.
2- Charity- We have all had one of those nights where we are going to the store for a bit of eggnog or a joke gift of fruit cake, and you notice that there are usually two people there with bells. I’m guessing that most of the time you just go past them, trying not to be noticed. They are there for a reason, try giving a few coins to a good cause. Christmas is also about giving to those that have less than you. So, please do an angel tree project, give a little to the Salvation Army, or just spend some time in a soup kitchen. It is better to give, rather than to receive.
3- Bonding- Christmas is about family, and spending time with your family, no matter if they are blood-bond. Spend time with people you love this Christmas. Take the night for yourselves and enjoy who you love.
4- Good Will- Not just a thrift shop, good will is truly what makes the Christmas season enjoyable. Although, we should think about it all year round. It is really the Christmas season where we should come together as a community. Instead, of trampling over that one old lady to get that piece of crap your kid will play three seconds with. You should help her. And honestly, it doesn’t need to be that extreme. Just a casual “hi” on the street or aiding someone with a predicament that they are dealing with. Just be caring individuals, rather than being selfish.
5- Joy- Remember, this is the Christmas season. Take your time and enjoy what the season is about. Don’t rush it and enjoy what little time is here to enjoy. It may sound corny, but the best way to deal with the holiday season is to put joy into everything you do, and not to stress out about it being perfect. We are here to enjoy the season and to bath in each other’s joy. Anything else, is merely a caveat that is enjoyable in and of itself.
Christmas may not be the most magical year for some, but we should still celebrate and enjoy the season. Christmas is not just a commercial holiday, it is something that we all share and all may love. So, from the bottom of our hearts. All the employees of the clock wish you, a very, merry holiday season and wish you a tidings of good cheer.