Christmas is right around the corner, and with this joyful holiday we would expect our halls to be decked with lights, decorum, and the joyful Christmas spirit. However, for some years now—perhaps since the pandemic—this has been fading tremendously. It’s like Christmas is not even Christmas anymore, but just another season in our calendars. Nowadays, our surroundings reflect gloom rather than cheer, and the newest generations are losing interest in embracing the holly jolly spirit.
Since I was a little girl, I have always considered Christmas to be my favorite holiday. Every year, I look forward to those cozy ugly sweaters, baking dozens of batches of my favorite holiday desserts, and setting up the tree with the ones I love and care about the most. However, recently I’ve noticed Christmas has become more of a business rather than a time that symbolizes union, people seem to value what you give to them physically rather than the intention behind a gift.
What do you mean these kids aren’t watching “Polar Express” on an early release day in their pjs anymore?
The culprit of this situation revolves around the use of social media. The portrayal of what “Christmas” should look like light reflects luxury and consumerism fueled by capitalism and maximalism. However, due to the status of the economy, some can’t measure up to what they see on their feed. Many can’t even fathom the thought of buying their families that pair of shoes they have been dreaming about all year long when they keep struggling to even put food on their table. The ones that are being affected the most are the kids. This generation is slowly losing the excitement for Santa, elves, the Nutcracker, and overall magic of this festivity. As they grow more “grinchy” towards it, I wonder, how will our days be merry and bright, if everything and everyone seems to be on the naughty list this year?
Nonetheless, the light may seem dim, but it’s not lost. There are ways to bring the jolly spirit back into our homes and make this time the most wonderful of the year again. Let’s begin with the decoration; we don’t realize but many of the things we are lured to buy in store can easily be made through arts and crafts. Things such as garlands, Christmas cards, figurines, stockings, and wreaths can be made with stuff that we have at home! By reusing and recycling you can save up to hundreds of dollars while letting the magic of Christmas fill our hearts and homes with joy. And the best thing about crafts is that they are unique; something you will never find at any store. Additionally, you can use this time as a bonding activity with your loved ones! You can all DIY different ornaments whilst watching a Christmas movie and drinking hot coco! It can be the beginning of a new annual tradition, letting each ornament remind us of love shared, laughter enjoyed, and dreams yet to come.
As for gifts, this Christmas we can give back as the Grinch once said before, “What if Christmas,doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas…perhaps… means a little bit more!”
Sometimes in life, a gift is not something we buy, but something we share or make. For instance, I was in this exact same situation during COVID-19 season, where money was tight, but the blissful spirit was within me. I remember the phrase, “the way through a person’s heart is through the stomach” and thought about edible gifts (aka food). Sharing food creates a feeling of comfort and shows appreciation; it’s a universal language of love that stimulates both the palate and heart. As a result, I baked my loved one’s favorite sweet treats, wrapped them in little boxes with bows and a little card with a heartfelt message and cooked their favorite dishes for dinner. And when I’m telling you, that evening there was not a crumb left on that table and until this day, my family keeps highlighting how much they enjoyed it. Instead of spending money on a wishful gift, you can buy them something they always use, so they won’thave to worry about rebuying it at least once. This shows you have paid attention to their needs and put some thought into it.
And just like that, we lessen the worries that steal the cheer of our homes this time of the year, and we greet these festive baubles to symbolize peace and goodwill toward all. When we surround ourselves with merriment and let the holiday spirit take over us; finally, the magic of our days is back, and a wish fora merry little Christmas will be granted.
