Through my whole life, Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. I would spend my time patiently waiting for Christmas music to come on the radio, making cutout Christmas cookies, and staying up later than most, just to make my own marathon of my favorite holiday movies. Now, when I younger, the last thing on my mind was “What is this movie teaching me?” So, as I get older, I like thinking a little deeper and considering all of the benefits. Now, I watch these movies and find a greater meaning.
"The Grinch Who Stole Christmas": This classic Christmas tale taught me so much about the Christmas season and what it means, not only to get, but to give. The Who's have headed towards a society much like our own—a society in which most are materialistic and thinking about spending and what they want to unwrap during this holiday season. Am I guilty of this? Of course, but I don't know if it's the look in Cindy Lou who's eyes, or the transformation of the Grinch, but something tells me that the meaning of Christmas might be a little more than these material things. Christmas is about being together and being thankful for what we've been given over the past year. Along with this, I learned the importance of giving everyone a chance. Even the worst people can have their eyes opened and turn their lives around.
"Elf": "Elf" isn't exactly a classic, but it's been my favorite since the first time I saw it. This humorous piece carries a lesson that I think is so important to us today. That lesson is to always be yourself no matter the place or time. Because being judgmental is such an easy task and everyone deserves to be comfortable in their own skin. No matter the circumstance, smiling should be everyone's favorite! The second lesson is obviously that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. I can’t tell you a time that I was upset while listening to Mariah Carey kill “All I Want for Christmas is you.” Christmas spirit is a strong force, and everyone needs a little this time of year.
"Rudolf": This Christmas classic teaches a lesson that kids in our society today need more than most. It’s so easy for kids to feel left out, or to feel like they belong to a specific class or group. Society has taught us to take what is on the outside of a person and classify them based on those observations. This is a good example of not judging a book by its cover, or that everyone is different. Of course, for most, our faces don’t light up. But, many of us have skills or talents that may be undermined by judgment, when in reality, we may prove to be very helpful or valuable to someone in society. Just like Rudolph’s nose in guiding Santa back to the North Pole. No one is perfect, and everyone has there own niche.
"The Santa Clause": While there are many sequels to the original movie, there are lessons to be learned in each one. The greatest lesson I took away from the series was the negative influence of greed on people’s attitudes, and their overall approach at occasions like the holiday season. Being thankful and considering others is a big part of the holidays for me. So, seeing movies like this, is just a reminder of how great it is to remain both humble and generous in this time of year.
"Frosty the Snowman": This is a story that every kid knows, involving a corncob pipe and a button nose. This always seemed sad to me and I didn’t really understand the concept of a movie that didn’t have a happy ending. Now, I look back and see how important the real lesson I got from this really is. Every day you have to make the most of the great moments. Yes, problems will come and go, but it’s so important to remember all of the positive things happening around you. That’s how people stay happy and have great lives and legacies to leave behind. Realizing that everything has to come to an end has never been something I could settle for. So, Frosty taught me that while he may melt away at the end of the winter, but he’ll be back again someday.
There are hundreds of incredible classic holiday films, but these are the ones that come to mind when I remember what Christmas time is about. I love that these stories have grown to mean so much more than just a way to pass time over the break from school. They are entertainment to enjoy and stories to tell. I’m not one to think into things too much, but I know that it’s the memories and moments made in this season, ones including these movies listed above, that make the cold winters so much warmer.
Happy Holidays and best wishes!
