We spend weeks, sometimes months, awaiting the arrival of the holiday. We listen to the same Christmas songs that have been re-recorded for ages, we eat twice our weight in sugar cookies that are usually sub-par, and we even decorate the outside of our houses with as many lights as possible until we blow a fuse or upset the neighbors. As crazy and humorous as it sounds, I, along with many others, love being a part of it! Some argue over when it is socially acceptable to start participating in these activities, but we never talk about when it needs to end.

That brings us to today, what I believe is the saddest and most confusing day of the year. This day feels bittersweet. The sweetness comes from knowing all of the hard work and anticipation from the weeks passed has paid off. The bitterness, on the other hand, comes from knowing all of the hard work and anticipation from the weeks passed has ended.

Under the Christmas tree are remnants of wrapping paper here and there from the presents that are being used and played with this very moment. The cousins are spending their last moments together as half of them get ready to travel back home. Whether they live 50 miles or 500 miles away, it all seems much too distant. It’s too soon to take down the Christmas tree, but what is the point of keeping it up?

After months of preparation, the day has come and gone oh so quickly. It leaves everyone feeling weirdly nostalgic, even though Christmas was just yesterday. There is nothing designated for it, and that’s what makes it feel so empty. We become used to the routine of the holiday rituals that lead us up to the big day, and we are left with nothing to do when it’s over.

Think about this: after Thanksgiving, you get Black Friday. After New Years’, well, you get a whole new year to look forward to. But after Christmas… What’s after Christmas? We are left with a house full of decorations that are no longer relevant.

As it is December 26th, the saddest day of the year, I just want you to know that I am right there with you, along with every body else who feels the same way. If your family and friends haven’t left yet, go spend time with them. If there are leftovers from dinner, eat them. Eat them all. Make today the happiest “saddest day” it can be! At least you can mark off today on your “Countdown to Christmas 2017” calendar.