Focusing on family during the holiday season

Colorful wrapped gifts rest at the base of the tree. ‘Santa’ comes each year to give gifts to all the nice children of the world. Many children look forward to the gifts they receive each year at Christmas. Yet some have fallen victim to the holiday’s hyper commercialism and an expectation to be materially pleased. Parents and students can combat commercialism by focusing on family and the true meaning of the holiday season.

Some may argue children should not be required or obligated to give gifts to relatives. However, many minors who never learn to give grow up to be materialistic adults who fail to understand the importance of giving back.

The hyper commercialism and consumerism of the holidays leads to a feeling of entitlement and a distorted view of giving and receiving. Some children forget or never learn about the gift of giving to others.

The art of giving a gifts is a small but an important skill in learning to treasure and appreciate loved ones and acquaintances alike. Learning to appreciate others leads to greater acts of service, such as serving in the community and donating time or finances to charities.

Unable to legally work and generate income, many students find themselves unable to purchase gifts for loved ones. Other options exist to show gratitude to others during the holiday season. Spending quality time and assisting with chores are some of the ways young adults and children can show appreciation for those around them.

Instead of focusing on the commercialism of Christmas, students should use the holiday season to reflect and spend time with family and friends. Many in the nation expect to receive gifts during Christmas and don’t focus on the true meaning of the season. — Feather staff

Christmas break allows students to spend more time with friends and family. While many believe the holiday season is the busiest and most hectic time of the year, it also is an opportunity to step away from the pressures of school.

Instead of focusing on the commercialism of Christmas, students should use the holiday season to reflect and spend time with family and friends. Many in the nation expect to receive gifts during Christmas and don’t focus on the true meaning of the season.

It is estimated that Americans spend around or over $800B annually on Christmas. Not only do Americans spend so much of their finances on the holiday season, they also spend hours shopping for presents and supplies.

Despite the hectic nature of the holiday season, there are still plenty of opportunities for families to fellowship. Many practice traditions such as baking cookies or decorating a tree together during the season.

If your family does not have a holiday tradition, try making a new one this year. Whether attending a Christmas Eve church service, baking cookies with grandparents or driving down Christmas Tree Lane, simple occasions such as these create memories that last a lifetime.

Focusing on family and the birth of Jesus rather than material gifts is the true way to feel the Christmas spirit. While it isn’t wrong to be excited about receiving gifts, it shouldn’t be the main focus of Christmas.

How do you celebrate the holiday season? Do you have any favorite traditions or memories of Christmas? Let us know in the comments below!

For more editorials, read EDITORIAL: Benefits of allotting allowances to children. For more pieces related to Christmas, check out AmeriStudent hosts campus Christmas party.