We always look forward to the holidays and dread when they have to come to an end. There is nothing like the anticipation of what each box and bag holds for us under the tree, the gathering of family and friends at parties and other events, and the endless marathons of holiday movies that we simply can't watch too many times. It seems that on December 26th, this all has to come to an end, but this year I figured out that this is not necessarily the case. In the words of the Grinch, "Christmas comes without ribbons. It comes without tags. It comes without packages, boxes, or bags. Christmas doesn't come from a store. Christmas means a little bit more." As you take down your stockings and put away your tree, here are some things that you can do to keep the spirt of Christmas alive.
1. Don't forget about the small gestures that show you care
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At Christmas we think nothing of telling strangers Merry Christmas, or holding a door for someone while their hands are full of packages. We can continue doing small things for others on a daily basis.
2. Believe
Just because we are not little kids anymore and don't believe in Santa Claus doesn't mean we can't believe that there is something greater than us.
3. And on that note, believe the best in others
We give people the benefit of the doubt during the holidays. We simply just want to see the good in everyone, so let's try to continue doing so. I think it would benefit us all!
4. Keep the holiday cheer
During the holidays, we are always smiling and laughing with others, while reminiscing on all our great memories. We can keep this spirit alive throughout the year. You can reflect on good times just as easily in the month of June as you do in December.
5. Eat a Christmas dinner randomly
Who says you can't gather a group of friends and eat turkey, mac and cheese, and pumpkin pie for dinner one night?
6. Give
During the holidays we are all reminded to give to the less fortunate. So we throw our coins into the Salvation Army buckets; buy a present for a child off the angel tree; and serve dinner at a homeless shelter. These people need this type of love and generosity more than just during the "season of giving."
7. Write a letter
We all get excited opening Christmas cards from friends and family we may not have talked to the whole year. Why should we have to wait till Christmas to get a personal note and pictures of people that we care about? Sometime this year, instead of contacting people via social media, drop a letter in the mail. You could bring an unexpected joy to someones average day.
8. Make time for family
Everyone knows that Christmas day is family first. We may meet up with our friends later that night or even spend time alone, but Christmas day is all about family. We should all make an effort to put our families first more than just one day a year.
9. Decorate for every holiday
Celebrate the meaning behind every holiday. People can't wait to go crazy decorating their houses inside and out for Christmas, but we forget that every holiday has a meaning behind it, even if it may seem trivial to some of us. Celebrate every holiday through decorations for all to see and enjoy.
10. Pray for peace on earth and good will toward men
A common prayer heard at Christmas time is one that asks for peace on earth and good will toward men. This is a prayer that can and should be said every day.
These are a few things to keep the light and spirit of Christmas alive 365 days of the year rather than just one.
