The music, the lights, and the sales — the holiday season is upon us, whether we like it or not. Right now, countless individuals are out hunting for “Black Friday” bargains, with sales kicking off even before the turkey has had a chance to cool down.
Like many, I find this time of year to be quite challenging. With family gatherings fading due to distance, the overwhelming consumerism, no holiday break, and a sprinkle of seasonal melancholy, I sometimes wish I could fast-forward to January 2.
This year, I won’t have a big family feast, and Christmas will likely bring few gifts — if any. Financial constraints are tight, no matter what the calendar says.
While I’ve never been resentful about not having money for material things, it does frustrate me to see how fixated others are on them. I understand the pressure to buy extravagant gifts, indulge in unhealthy foods, and feel anxious about spending time with relatives who may only be enjoyable in small doses.
When those options fade away, you learn an important lesson: choose gratitude over bitterness, and appreciate what you already possess.
During this season, I find it essential to disconnect from certain online content and television shows. The images of people trampling each other for discounted televisions, cameras, and gadgets on Black Friday are overwhelming. Then, they show Christmas Day — the malls are deserted, families are home, and the holiday spirit seems to vanish until December 26 when shoppers return, frantically seeking post-holiday sales to replace unwanted gifts. It’s as if Christmas didn’t fulfill their needs; they’re still searching for something more.
As a child, the holidays were magical, filled with wonder and excitement, and I recognize that it’s a different experience for parents. For me, the holidays meant gathering with my large Polish family around tables laden with food and laughter. While I may recall a few special presents, it’s the shared experiences and traditions that linger in my memory far more than material gifts.
This year, as I encounter every Black Friday advertisement and hear people lamenting about their holiday burdens as if they were terminal, I’ll try to keep my eye-rolls at bay. When they express their dread over gift-giving, I might gently encourage them to reconnect with the reasons why they cherish the people they’re shopping for, and consider how they want those individuals to feel when they unwrap their gifts.
Instead of rushing around, let’s pause to appreciate the sights and scents of the season rather than overcommitting to events that leave us feeling drained. Perhaps we should ask ourselves, “What memories do I want to create?” And if we have children, “What do I want them to remember?”
Even though the holiday season can be tough for various reasons, and some things are unavoidable — like eccentric relatives making jokes around a table of holiday food — there are aspects we can control. We can choose to be thankful for what we have and focus on creating meaningful memories.
With that thought in mind, let the festivities commence!
For further reading, check out this article about the IVF process, which offers excellent insights into pregnancy. If you’re interested in the journey of home insemination, visit this page for expert advice. To understand more about our content policies, please refer to our terms and conditions.
In summary, the holidays have transformed into a whirlwind of consumerism and stress for many, often overshadowing the true spirit of gratitude and connection. By focusing on meaningful experiences rather than material possessions, we can reclaim the joy of the season.