‘Tis the Season

I think holidays are pointless. There. I said it. I have been constantly rebuked by friends and family for the way I feel, but I can’t help it.

I haven’t ever had a horrible Thanksgiving, or Christmas, or Easter. I don’t have any bad memories, or drunk, unruly, embarrassing family members that make holidays unbearable.

I have always loved my holiday experiences. I enjoy spending every moment that I can with my family. I enjoy giving thanks, celebrating Christ’s birth, and remembering the day he sacrificed his life for the world while surrounded by the people I love most.

What I don’t enjoy is the emphasis that is placed on food. What I don’t enjoy is the fact that I asked my family to work at a soup kitchen on Christmas day and my sister replied, “No. I don’t want to do that. I want my presents.” What I don’t enjoy is the amount of money we spend on crap like iPods, clothes, movies and jewelry, when there are people in other countries, and even in our own country, who will be spending their holidays wondering if they will be able to even eat.

I realize that I am idealistic. I recognize the fact that people will always want more and will never be satisfied. And I understand that we live in a world that is filled with broken families and latchkey kids.

But the emphasis on what the holidays are about needs to change.

It is important for us to remember that our family, Christ’s birth and sacrifice, and being thankful, are always important… not just on holidays.