Tis the season

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I made the irrational decision to partake in the black Friday madness. Why? Partly because I wanted the highly anticipated $1.86 towels, and partly because I wanted to “people watch”.  Five minutes before 8:00 p.m., someone yelled “Go!” and the crowd went wild. Adults began shoving kids, kids began yelling at adults; it was complete chaos. While I did manage to get a couple of towels, I did not trample over anyone to do so. On the way home, I began to ask myself, why? Why do so many people anticipate black Friday? Are the deals THAT good, or is it an adrenaline rush? I choose the latter. I think we should all take time to reflect on the true meaning of this holiday season. Sure, we all enjoy giving and receiving gifts, but is that all we have to offer? Love is one of the greatest gifts of all. Oftentimes we, myself included, get so wrapped up in tangible things that we lose sight of what is really important.

So this holiday season, I challenge you to step outside the box and do things a little different. Instead of filling your child’s room with toys, adding more toys to the toys they already have (whew!), try donating old toys to make room for new ones. Instead of piling your plate to the rim and then returning for seconds, try eating one plate and taking another to a friend in need. If you are really brave I encourage you to try this. Instead of exchanging gifts with your family, have everyone put in $10-15 and adopt a family. My family made the decision to adopt this year and it feels so good knowing I do not have to stress buying gifts for family members who already have more than the average person.

This holiday season, take time to reflect on what is really important. Focus on the intangible. Remember, the best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched, but are felt in the heart. -Helen Keller

Natoya Hill

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