5 Things That Make A Grinch Like Christmas
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

5 Things That Make A Grinch Like Christmas

33
5 Things That Make A Grinch Like Christmas
Karin Yearwood

It seems like just yesterday, the holiday ads began streaming across television screens, smartphones, tablets, and computer screens. We heard about the blowout sales on Black Friday and every subsequent "Biggest Sale of the Year." Now it's after Christmas and the hustle and bustle have quieted while Christmas lights still glimmer in the night light.

Since becoming an adult I have not been a huge fan of the holidays. It's too much hype, too many people buying unnecessary, cheesy items, and too many things being valued and people devalued. Although I purchased gifts for coworkers, my closest family members and a couple friends, seeing all of the gluttony and superficial wonder has made me a bit of a grinch. However, in the past few weeks, I have become grateful for the intangible things in my life. The things that are unexpected and carry so much weight in the human experience.

For me, there are five things that can make a grinch love the holidays.

1. Getting to know people better.

Whether it's at work, school, church, or another organization, you have the opportunity to spend quality time with people that you may not have otherwise. If there is a gift exchange, that can reveal facts about the person like their love of reading, photography, or baking. The holidays gives us space to open up and be accepted with warmth and love. No one wants to give or get coal in their stockings.

2. An acceptable reason to overeat.

Ugly sweater parties, brunches, dinners, parties. There is food almost everywhere during the holidays. And it's impolite not to eat it. Sally made cookies? Eat them! Eggnog making contest? Go, drink! Being conservative on the sweets and starches throughout the year is highly commendable. But during the holidays, relax a bit and indulge. No need to be an uptight grinch. Be merry!

3. Helping others.

As one of the fortunate people on this earth, I have noticed how far the smallest gesture can go. For those who do not have, opening your home, heart, and resources means everything. Some people do no have many family or close friends. So the time spent is extremely valuable. Also, raising money and donating to worthy and charitable causes can be the only thing that makes Christmas possible for families. If it were you, you'd want help. Give a little.

4. Appreciating the past.

I remember opening up the latest barbie dolls, Disney themed toys, and pretty clothes as a kid. My brother and I had great Christmases. Waking up early, running downstairs in PJs just to spend maybe 10 minutes ripping the wrapping paper clean off the gifts. It was great. It was the 90s. And I'm so happy to have those memories. They will forever be close to me so long my mind is capable of retrieving them. When I hear people complaining and being ungrateful, I revisit those times and become even more appreciative of what I have.

5. Family.

My paternal grandmother is 98. Yep, she's had 98 Christmases. Many do not see half of that. My brother was born on Christmas. He is my mother's first child, perhaps her greatest gift after believing she would never birth her own children. Some years are very low key, just a few friends, some family. Others are more lively. Either way, the time spent with family, all seated on the comfy leather couch in front of the TV, or at the dinner table is priceless. The words exchanged, the hugs, kisses, smiles. It's honestly the reason for the season. How could you not want that?

I'm slowly coming around on Christmas. I still see it mainly as a day off. But every now and then, I think of these things and my spirit lights up a little.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

57046
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

36784
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

958546
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

190033
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments