Holiday spirit is overrated. Yes, I said it, and no, I am not a buzzkill. Okay, maybe just a little. What I mean to say is that what we consider to be the “holiday spirit” is not actually what the holiday season is about. Materialism within this season has become so over-embellished that our generation has lost sight of the true holiday spirit. So, when we rave about the holidays, what are we really raving about? What is the true meaning of the holidays?

The focus of our society around the holiday season leans heavily towards the gifts, music, snow, and red cups. The sentimental value during the season can sometimes be forgotten. Of course, it is nice waking up on Christmas Day and opening gifts. Sure, the music is beautiful, although it does get annoying after a while. Yes, it is magical waking up on Christmas Day to see a white blanket draped over the yard while sipping on a peppermint mocha in a Starbucks red cup. However, isn’t something missing? Isn’t there something more?

This is the time of year where things come to a close. Along with the year coming to an end, for us students, it is the end of a semester. It is a time to reflect on the accomplishments we have made as these things come to a close. Reflect over the good and the bad. It is a time to take in all of our blessings and a time to rejoice in the life we have crafted for ourselves. The holidays are a time to celebrate with the ones who are close to us. Spend time with them and live in the moment.

Let’s not forget this, this holiday season.