The tree is up and the turkey, cranberry sauce and mashed potato leftovers are running out. It’s time to bring the string lights from the depths of the basement and scroll through Netflix to find the Christmas movies.
It’s officially the holiday season.
While it may be different in many ways thanks to the pandemic, there are still some familiar rituals we can all be thankful for.
Personally, when I think of Christmas, I think of my home. While the picture conjured up in my head is of my childhood home in Pennsylvania, with its rotating tree that my mom loves and a curious cat sitting under it with wide eyes and an extended paw, I think of time spent indoors. Even in college, when I lived with eight friends, we came together and decorated our living room with a tree and stockings. It’s time spent with those we hold closest.
Christmas has turned into a commercial holiday, unfortunately, but at its core, it’s the season of giving. There’s no feeling like thinking of the perfect gift for someone and watching them open it up. This year, I’ll be relying on cards, little gifts and phone calls to send love to friends and family across the country. I’ve also realized giving someone the gift of your time is just as valuable, if not more valuable than tangible items. Frankly, I don’t have too much money, but I have nothing but time. When we do buy, let’s shop local, too.
It’s a time when we can help others. Goshen HELP and the Salvation Army could use bell ringers outside of Main Street Market every day. It’s a two hour time commitment, and it’s not too bad on a nice day. There are also food banks and food drives where our help could be useful. Check in with community organizations and see how you could help.
Another sentiment I cannot overlook is the fact that 2020 is nearly over. We’re in the last month. It’s a time to reflect on all that’s happened this year, both in our personal lives and around the nation and world. Of course, when the clock turns to 12 a.m. on January 1 our problems will not be over, but I am certainly ready for a reset, even if it’s completely symbolic. It’s a time to reflect on the good and the bad and to decide what’s next.
But before we pop the champagne, don our oversized 2021 glasses and bring in the new year, we celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and more. Let’s be safe, be happy and take care of one another.
