When the holidays come around, it's filled with happiness and excitement. Nothing beats the whole family coming together and being able to celebrate with them.
At times, there can be a bit of irritation due to some family members making themselves way too at home and the stress of having all the gifts figured out. But after all of that, those tiny annoyances are worth it.
They are worth the moments where you get to hug your loved ones, give them gifts, talk about past memories, and overall just feel loved.
Since it's a normal occurrence for many people, it can easily be taken for granted.
There are those that aren't able to be with their families on Christmas, Hannakuh, New Years, etc. Such as those who serve our country, who are out in deployment keeping us safe.
They aren't able to see their spouse and kiss them. They aren't able to sit down and have a meal with every person they love. They can't hear the pattering of feet coming towards their door Christmas morning when the kids are ready to see what Santa brought them.
They can't feel their kids arms wrap around them when they open up all their gifts. Although there are multiple platforms to communicate with, it doesn't compare to physically being there.
All of those who serve our country are sacrificing that time with their family, to keep us safe.
Not only are they sacrificing precious moments, but so are their families and friends. They would do absolutely anything to have their loved ones come home and spend time with them.
With these holidays coming up, hold your family tighter. We are fortunate enough to be able to make memories with them and to show them how much we love them.
Also, appreciate all of the men and women who are serving our country doing everything in their power, to make sure that we are able to celebrate these holidays safely.
If you would like to give back to the soldiers and all of those who can't come home for the holidays, there are organizations and programs that allow you to donate items and send letters that could bring a smile to someone's face.
There are also programs for the military families, so they can have a happy Christmas even if the person they love most isn't there.