The holiday season is an exciting time for kids. Lennox is very excited this year as he watched the tree go up this past weekend and watching gifts accumulate under the boughs. But for nearly every moment of excitement, there are lessons learned during the holidays. Here are a few that we are learning.
1. Too many ornaments on one branch will lead to disaster.
Let's just spread them out to avoid broken branches and shattered ornaments, shall we?
2. Just because you give someone a gift, that doesn't mean you will receive one in return.
Sometimes, people aren't able to give us gifts back, but that doesn't mean that we shouldn't give to them. We give gifts because we care about people, not because we expect something back. That's why it is a GIFT.
3. Not everyone celebrates the same holidays.
Even though it is our tradition to celebrate Christmas, our friends may not be celebrating Christmas. There may be other holidays that are important to them and their families and we hope that they enjoy their holidays, too.
4. They may be celebrating differently.
Even if you are celebrating the same holiday, you may have different traditions. Not everyone will celebrate the holidays in exactly the same way for a variety of reasons, and you shouldn't pressure them to do it in what you consider the "right" way. Maybe parades are too loud or they aren't comfortable visiting Santa. You do your thing and let them do their own.
5. The people count more than the stuff.
It's not what's under the tree that matters, it's the time we spend with family and friends that really makes the memories.
6. You can't always get what you want.
Even Santa would have trouble producing some of the items on your wishlist. Let's be grateful for what we do receive rather than focusing on what we don't get.
7. Be thankful for what you have.
Sometimes you will get a gift that you don't like that much, but be thankful that someone wanted to get you something and that you have their friendship and that they thought of you.
8. Patience is a virtue.
No, Santa isn't coming tomorrow. No, we can't open presents today. Enjoy the season, and be a little patient.
9. Enjoy the spirit of the holidays.
Christmas carols, time with family, church functions and ugly sweaters... the holidays have a lot to offer. Enjoy the little things before the magic fades and January rolls around.
10. Practice kindness.
Last, but not least, practice kindness throughout the year. Smiles are contagious and you can help start an outbreak by just being kind and spreading good cheer.
