The holidays are almost upon us, and that means lots of presents, decorations, and holiday party dresses to buy. In fact, when it comes to crazy sales like those of Black Friday (where people have actually been killed in stampedes of crazed shoppers trying to get the best deals), it seems like the season has become more about spending money than anything else. But is this actually what the holidays are all about? How can anyone feel the Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanza spirit in the midst of all this consumerism? Well, it actually is possible, believe it or not.
Giving and receiving gifts doesn't have to mean you're embracing capitalist tendencies.
The holidays have always been a really important time of the year for me. I'll admit, when I was younger, getting presents was the most exciting part. However, as I've grown up, I have found myself enjoying giving more than receiving. There's nothing like seeing someone's face light up when you give them something that shows how much you care about them.
Keep in mind, a gift does not have to be something you purchased from a store. In fact, it is often much more meaningful when it's something homemade, or even something symbolic. You can give the gift of music by singing carols, or the gift of affection by telling a loved one all of the ways they make you happy. Presents don't have to mean spending hundreds of dollars at the mall. In fact, you don't have to spend anything at all; you just need thoughtfulness and creativity.
There are other ways to show you care.
Another thing to remember about the holiday season is that it isn't all about gifts. Religious or not, there is something about this time of year that brings people together. There are plenty of ways to celebrate the season with your family and friends without exchanging gifts. Religious gatherings, game nights, tree lighting ceremonies, dinners, baking projects, story telling, and snowy outdoor activities are all wonderful ways to surround yourself with those closest to you. This is the perfect opportunity to spend time with the people you don't get to see all that often, so why waste it? Give the gift of love! That may sound cheesy, but I'm okay with it.
Find out what the holiday spirit means to you.
The holidays always bring plenty of opportunities to help the less fortunate. Soup kitchens, toy and clothing donations, and other volunteer options are great ways to spread cheer and be selfless. This is also a great time to embrace your religion and get in touch with that part of yourself. And if you don't have a religion that you associate with, that doesn't mean that the holidays have to mean any less. They can be about tradition, family, friends, nature, winter, or just taking a break from the stress of school. Regardless, find a way to make this time meaningful in a context that doesn't revolve around buying things that no one needs.
The holiday season doesn't have to succumb to corporate evil. Remember that there are other ways to celebrate, stay grateful for what you have, and spread holiday joy with more than just material items.
