Memories can often times be associated with holidays. Holidays bring tradition and tradition brings memories. We kick off winter by eating copious amounts of food while watching the dreadful Lions lose. After that we eat some more food only this time we open presents and cap it off with a ball dropping in New York. In spring we go to church and then look for eggs filled with a plethora of chocolate. During summer we shout Merica’ and blow stuff up. In the fall we are allowed one day to dress up and go to strangers houses asking for candy. It’s hard to mention some of these holidays and not immediately head to some of the most memorable times in our life.
Personally, my favorite holiday is Christmas. It may just be the Minnesota in me, but nothing beats hot apple cider at grandma’s house with Christmas music in the background. I also love how jovial the world seems to be during this time. Every store is filled with Christmas music and an unusually happy clerk. We send each other family Christmas cards and wish blessings to each other as we head into the New Year.
Currently, we are in the wonderful Fourth of July season. For many people it is an excuse to drink one too many and get an extra day off work. For others it’s a chance to be at the lake or take the family to a local parade filled with old cars and generally, old people. Of course we are all bleeding red white and blue and can’t resist posting a picture or Facebook status thanking our troops for their great sacrifice.
Don’t get me wrong -- I love holidays, but there is something about them that is upsetting to me. It’s upsetting to me that this is the only time of year our troops get recognized. It upsets me that this is the only time we give money to those in need because Santa is outside ringing a bell. It upsets me that it takes holidays to spend time with our relatives. It upsets me that it takes holidays for us to make memories!
Life should be a holiday. United States servicemen and women should be shown our respect and gratitude every single day. Not just through a Facebook or Instagram post on the Fourth of July that we all know is more about how your abs or hair look that day and not about your gratitude of their service.
Why does it take the “best time of the year” to give people our best? Why is it we only wish people a merry day one month out of the year? It is time we start living every day like it’s a holiday. Wish your cashier a blessed day. Pay for that serviceman/woman’s meal. Blow up fireworks just because. Invite relatives over for a turkey on a day other than Thanksgiving. Give money to people who aren’t ringing a bell dressed as Santa. Let your kids dress up and overeat candy. Life is too short, and it’s time we start living every day like a holiday.
