1. Many countries don't celebrate Christmas
Despite the popular belief that Christmas is a time of love and happiness for everyone, many countries have no concept of this Christian, westernized holiday. The extreme amount of presents and money spent during this holiday would be inconceivable for so many in poverty around the world, something that can be easy to forget but something we should remember!
2. Christmas is an openly declared Christian holiday
For many Christians, this holiday is much more than gift giving and food, but more of a celebration of the one we call Savior and friend. The only other holiday season celebrating Christian traditions is Easter, and is definitely not celebrated as widely. What a joy to be able to openly celebrate such a day that is so special to us!
3. The original morals of Christmas is unity
Despite the holiday season being a time of dread for those who would rather not sit through cringe dinners with long, lost aunts. The season is a time that encourages family bonding and unity, something we should never take for granted no matter how cringe!
4. A season of giving
Receiving presents is a great blessing, but seeing the faces of those you love when they receive a gift they have wanted for a while, is something that can warm your heart!
5. Christmas food and treats
Shopping and cooking Christmas delights is such a nice break from the normalcy of everyday food. Enjoy the Christmas cookies, gingerbread houses, eggnog, and Christmas roasts, I'm sure your belly will!
6. Starbucks holiday drinks
I am a bit of a coffee addict and Starbucks is definitely a place that has way too much of my money, especially at this time of year when Christmas drinks taste so good!
7. Decorations galore
The Christmas lights and fun ginormous Christmas trees in shopping malls and public squares may be a bit over the top, but are definitely a fun tradition, especially when it becomes a competition between neighbors!
8. Family time
Your family are your family and they aren't always going to be around either! Make sure you take advantage of good health, good laughs, and the fact that you have a loving family around you this holiday.
9. A time of reflection
Christmas is a great way to end the year, and as New Years comes quickly afterwards, it's important to try and make Christmas a good end of the year. Be quick to listen and slow to talk, quick to love and slow to fight.
10. Christmas traditions
Whether it's family traditions like my families tradition of watching The Queen's Christmas message, or a more generalized holiday tradition like opening and giving gifts, enjoy it!
Despite the extreme marketing and overplayed Christmas songs, imagine living in a country where Christmas is not celebrated. Think about all the traditions you would miss! Christmas is a long practiced cultural tradition and a Christian holiday we should be proud to celebrate, don't forget that this Christmas in the midst of the craziness!
