The holidays are upon us, and they can be overwhelming. Holidays often result in so much stress, pressure, and costs, but why does it have to be about that? There is so much more to this season than gifts and holiday cards and homemade cookies. The season of giving has become so focused on the materialistic elements, and it’s time we step back and focus on what it is that Christmas is all about.

Faith

My family has always raised my siblings and I to remember the real reason behind the day we anticipate all year: the birth of the Christ child. My family believes God sent his Son to this world so he could die for our sins, and so we could all truly feel God’s love and devotion. This Christmas, take Jesus in your hearts and truly rejoice in the celebration of his birth. I always try to act in accordance with the scripture, and strive to live with worship beaming within me. Whatever faith you hold, let it give you warmth and compassion, this season and always.

Love

Just as Jesus was born to show God’s love for His people, we must show our love to all the people we care about. The season is not easy for everyone: for some it may be the first holiday with a recently deceased loved one, for some it may be the first holiday after divorce, for some it may be the first holiday without a job, for some it may be the first holiday without a home. The list goes on and on, and it needs to be understood that although the holidays are joyous for some, they are sorrowful for others. Take this time to show how much you care for those you adore, not with objects of your affection, but with words and actions that speak your love.

Giving back

As previously mentioned, not everyone is as fortunate to purchase small gifts for their families, or even celebrate with their families. Those who are lucky enough to have a roof over their heads, clean sheets beneath them at night, and enough food in their stomachs should think about giving back to those not as lucky. Take time to donate nonperishables or your time to your local food pantry. When you’re at the mall buying your family’s presents, pick up a few extra gifts to give to a toy drive. Give a few dollars to the homeless man sitting at the end of the supermarket sidewalk. Send letters or care packages to soldiers who do not get to come home this December. If we have enough to bring delight to our loved ones, we have enough to bring a piece of happiness to someone who will not otherwise receive any joy this holiday season.

Family

If you are lucky enough to be all together this Christmas, do not take that for granted. Laugh from your belly, love with all you have, and take countless pictures. There may come a day when not all of you are all together again, so having not only the warm memories but also the pictures from the day will bring you right back. Appreciate every moment, and realize you do not have to give presents to have a great Christmas. Put a Christmas movie on and bundle up on the couch together. Life does not have to be lavish to be wonderful. Reminisce, relax, and just be together.

This Christmas, remember why we celebrate the blessed day. Slow down from the hustle and bustle of the shopping mall and the extra thick highway traffic. This world is often cruel, and the power of faith, love, our offerings, and time with your nearest and dearest can make the lives of all individuals a little brighter, even if for just one day.