I could never sleep on the night of Christmas Eve, the excitement proceeding Santa’s arrival was always too overwhelming. I vividly remember listening for the reindeer’s footsteps on the roof above me, anticipating that the next day would be known as the best Christmas of all. However, receiving gifts from Santa was not the only thing I was anxious for. The smiles on my parents’ faces were always priceless as they opened the gifts I had given them, whether it was a home-made ornament or something they had wanted for months. You see, those smiles were always better than any gift I received on Christmas Day. Even though receiving gifts like Carrie Underwood tickets and a brand new iPhone was truly exhilarating, whenever I look back on those days I just see those smiles.

The thing is, as time moves faster and moments become memories, those smiles will always be with me. Yeah, that iPhone was the coolest thing ever and that Carrie Underwood concert was one of the best nights of my life, but those smiles and those happy tears are the things that I will forever cherish. Therefore, Christmas Day holds some of my happiest memories full of laughter, family, and a ton of wrapping paper.

At the end of the day, giving is always better than receiving. Whether it’s giving back to your community through volunteer work or giving back to your family and friends by showing them you truly appreciate their roles in your life. A Christmas gift is a gift, but the impact and memories it leaves behind is the best gift of all.