Of course, it's the most wonderful time of the year. Jolly, cheery, and merry. Families get to see each other after they haven't in a while, you get presents, school's out for a few weeks, you celebrate the Christian faith, and you get to jam to All I Want For Christmas Is You every single day of December.
But, as I get older, I find it increasingly important to be mindful of how painful and complex the holiday season can be for millions of people around the world.
You may be thinking, how can Christmas of all things be painful and complex?
Well, not everyone has the money to buy presents for their family and friends. Not everyone has a family to go visit or have over for Christmas Day. Many people tragically lose loved ones around this time of year. Some people struggle with seasonal depression and the mental stress that comes with this intense time.
Now, don't think this article is here to be negative or guilt-trip you! My goal is not to guilt those who do have money for presents, or who do have family to spend Christmas with or overall do not really struggle around this time of year. I'm one of those people too.
My aim here is to establish a gentle reminder in the form of an article that when we are blessed with these major sources of happiness, we should not take them for granted. There are so many people that wish they could have these seemingly simple things for the holidays.
If you're religious, say a prayer for all those who are not in the spirit this December, and ask God to send little blessings their way.
If you're not religious, send good thoughts and wishes to those who are struggling this holiday season.
Most of us, religion aside, are capable of small random acts of kindness every single day. I was in the Starbucks drive-thru line this weekend and was ready to pay for my drink, only to find out that the car in front of me had generously taken care of it for me. It was so unexpected, but put such a smile on my face. I was stressed over final assignments and everything else going on at the moment, so that small act made such an impact.
Of course, I'm not saying we should all be ready to buy two Starbucks drinks every morning for ourselves, plus a random stranger -- but I encourage you to simply be pure hearted and spread Christmas kindness this month. Even if you're not having the best day yourself, just smiling at a stranger or tipping a few extra dollars in a donation jar will make a positive difference out there in the world, when many times it is so full of gloomy and upsetting news.
Listen to Burl Ives, lyrically and literally: Have a holly jolly Christmas, and when you walk down the street, say hello to friends you know and everyone you meet!
