I’ll start out by saying that I’m aware of the origin of Christmas and what the holiday meant to be about. I’ll also start out by saying that I’m not particularly religious. Sure, I’ve been to church a time or two, but I would not call myself a devoted Christian by any means. I do, however, celebrate Christmas.

Now before you go rolling your eyes, telling me I shouldn’t be celebrating Christmas for nonreligious purposes, let me explain what Christmas means to me, and what it most definitely does not mean to me.

People always have this assumption that us millennials are incredibly materialistic, which I can understand, unfortunately. I see so many Odyssey articles with titles like “X gifts to add to your Christmas list”, or “X things to get your boyfriend/roommate/family for Christmas”.

It seems that Christmas nowadays is all about what materialistic items you want people to give you and what you are giving other people. Since when did our generation become so petty? I think the last time I wrote a Christmas wish list was in elementary school, and then I began to realize what Christmas meant to me, and the holiday started to become even more magical.

To me, Christmas is about family. It’s spending time with loved ones you haven’t spent quality time with recently. Sure, a new Patagonia fleece would be nice, but gathering around with family, watching a Christmas movie by the fireplace is simply unbeatable.

Christmas is also about friends – seeing those you probably haven’t seen for awhile, whether it’s your best friend who goes to another school or your dog who is just so excited you’re home. It’s about appreciating everyone in your life and being thankful for this time you can share together.

Christmas is also a time to be thankful for what you have – a roof over your head, food on your table, and good health. There’s so much we look over and take for granted when we waste our time worrying about the latest technology and hottest fashion brands we expect under the tree on Christmas morning.

When I come home from college to my warm house decorated with lights, and a home cooked meal waiting for me, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed with appreciation and joy for everything I have.

So no, Christmas may not be religion focused for me, but it is certainly not gift focused either because when I stop to look around, everything in my life is already a gift. It’s more than I could ever ask for.

This holiday season, put down that Christmas wish list and take time to appreciate everything you already have. This time of year is too special to waste on trivial things.

Merry Christmas!