The holidays are dictated by much more than a Starbucks cup. After a Facebook video went viral with over 16 million views, a controversy exploded regarding Starbucks' red holiday cup. The video argued that the plain red cup outwardly expressed both anti-Christian and anti-Jesus sentiment.

It's hard to believe that our holidays are dictated by a seasonal coffee cup, or that our attention is focused on a to-go mug instead of creating conversation about the refugee crisis, the attack on terrorism, women's reproductive rights, or the current Presidential campaign. It's important to not only move towards productive conversation and change, but also to appreciate our own ability to celebrate the holidays.

The holidays are a time to enjoy the company of family and friends. It's a time to cherish the company of others and express gratitude for the opportunities that are provided to us. Instead of focusing on the design of Starbucks' holiday cup, take the time to give back this holiday season. Find opportunities in your local community to help others. Donate your time and services to those in need. Help start productive discussion among peers, seek out opportunities that will enrich your cultural understanding and worldview. Instead of worrying about how the ornaments, or lack-thereof, appear on Starbucks' to-go cups, here are four things you should really do this holiday.

1. Volunteer.

Image from: http://www.garlandisdschools.net/page.cfm?p=4463

Take a few hours out of your holiday break and give back to the community. There are an overwhelming number of opportunities to get involved with your school or hometown community during the holiday season. Organize a coat drive, donate toys, participate in Adopt-a-Family, visit a senior-citizen's home, read to children at the local library, volunteer at a homeless shelter, or donate to a food pantry. Do some research and find out what your community needs. Get a group of friends together and enjoy the holiday by giving back to those in need.

2. Watch the Presidential debates.

Image from: http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2015/10/key-moments-of-the-first-democratic-debate.html

If you haven't been able to keep up with the Presidential debates so far, the holidays are the perfect time to catch up. The full length debates are available, and can be easily accessed for viewing on YouTube. Educate yourself about the different candidates; listen and analyze the ideas of both the Republicans and Democrats. Take time to listen to opinions that differ from your own. Expand your understanding of the political system and become informed. With the presidential primaries approaching quickly, it's important to be informed about all the candidates before you vote! If you have not yet registered to vote, do so over break!

3. Read and discuss current events.

Image from: http://jcccampsatmedford.org/photos-news/

It can sometimes be difficult to keep up with current events during the busy school semester. Make sure you use the holidays to immerse yourself in the happenings of the world. Read about the issues going on around the country and around the globe, and translate this knowledge into positive discussions. Talk with your family at the dinner table, chit-chat with your friends over coffee, discuss with your classmates and peers. Take the time to expand your own understandings and viewpoints by listening to the opinions and insights of others. It's easy to get sucked into the college bubble, or use the holidays as a time to relax. This year, make your holiday productive by becoming informed.

4. Be thankful.

Image from: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/faithwalkers/2013/11/how-to-be-truly-thankful-this-thanksgiving/

Take a moment each and every day this holiday season and reflect. Think about the things that you are thankful for. Take a second to appreciate the people in your life and the opportunities you have. Strive to become the best version of yourself, by promoting positive change and peace within your community and friend group. Encourage others to do the same. Enjoy the holiday season with the people who are most important to you.

The holiday is a time for thanks, a time to reflect and to create positive, forward movement. Instead of worrying about the color of your coffee to-go cup, focus on one of the above four things. Happy Holidays!