Twinkly lights, live performances, an up and coming pop star and of course Santa. What more could you possibly want out of the West Chester annual Christmas parade? Before tonight, I thought that was everything you could have ever wanted from a parade and a little bit more. Luckily, I realized there is something it has been missing this whole time.

I had the opportunity to volunteer my time tonight and put smiles on children’s faces. Through West Chester Off-Campus and Commuter Services, I passed out stuffed teddy bears to children I saw at the parade with my friends all while wearing a green and red elf hat and, of course, a smile.

After asking permission from the skeptical parents, I would squat down and offer this insanely fluffy teddy bear to the wide-eyed children. The smile that formed on their faces when they took the bear from me was priceless. Many would hug the bears and immediately turn around to show them off to their older siblings and parents.

The first little girl I encounter happened to be named Ella, just like me. Not only did the parents say it was fate, this little girl was awestruck: she couldn’t believe we shared the same name. I knew in that moment, the awkward conversations and going out of my comfort zone to approach these kids was all worth it. This special little girl received a one of a kind pink unicorn; I wasn't too sure why there was a unicorn in a bag of bears, but seeing how happy it made her brushed away all my confusion. It was, as her parents said, fate.

At another point, a little girl came up to me out of nowhere asking about the bear I was holding. After explaining to her that she could have it, her eyes lit up. She turned to her mom for approval, which was given, and this little girl snagged that bear from me and squeeze it tight.

To end the night, my friend Taylor and I still had three bears left to give out. Since we were leaving the parade, little kids were far and few between. When we saw a smaller looking child, we would sprint after them until we caught up, usually almost getting hit by a car in the process.

Once all the bears were handed out, our community service was done. We went back to home, ate some cake, and watched "The Grinch." It was the perfect end to a perfect night.

Overall, I am beyond happy and grateful to have had the opportunity during the beginning of the most wonderful season of the year to spread Christmas cheer. The children may forget the face that gave them their bears, but I know they’ll always remember the Christmas parade when they got them. And to me, that is all that matters.