Every year we see the two different kinds of people. There are the ones who don't decorate for Christmas until after Thanksgiving, and the ones who put their tree up on November 1st. People argue every year about when Christmas decorating is supposed to start, whether it be November 1st or December 1st. As we get closer to the holidays, we hear this conversation a lot. However, how do we determine who is right and who is wrong?
With the December 1st people, their first argument is usually "We still haven't had Thanksgiving yet. Have you forgotten about it?" To answer them, I always give the same response, "I haven't forgotten about Thanksgiving. I just like looking at the Christmas decorations." Every year, at least 3 people ask me this question, and every year, they get the same response. While I love Thanksgiving, the decorations aren't as fun to look at. Christmas has beautiful colors, trees, and catchy music. What does Thanksgiving have? A Parade and a turkey. While Thanksgiving is a great time to be with your family, it doesn't mean you shouldn't be allowed to have a Christmas tree up.
Regarding the November 1st people, this isn't the beginning of their holiday season. While they may be putting up their tree on November 1st, they've probably already done half of their holiday shopping. They start early, and usually have amazing decorations and presents. As one of these people, I know how it is. My Christmas season usually starts around July. I start buying presents, and think about who's house I'm going to at what time. I start making lists of who to give Christmas cards to, and I keep track of where my decorations are.
However, there are also people who don't decorate for Christmas at all. They have many different reasons, some of which are: religion, don't like the holiday season, or don't have the money. Whatever the reason, we shouldn't judge them. It's not our decision. Even if you're a Christmas nut, you should respect their decisions not to celebrate.
While you may be a December 1st person or a November 1st person, it doesn't really matter. Although it may sound cliche, Christmas isn't about the decorations, the presents, or who has the highest electric bill. Christmas is about spending time with the ones you love and celebrating the birth of Jesus. As the holiday season approaches, remember what's important. If you want to start decorating the day after Halloween, go for it. If you would prefer to wait until it is closer to Christmas, wait for it.
