In the wake of Christmas commercials and wish lists, we lose sight of the importance of the holiday season as the season of giving. We get so caught up in the latest deals and trends that we often breeze right by the Salvation Army Veteran standing outside the store, ringing a bell and standing frozen next to a red donation can. “But I’m buying this for my friend! But this is for my parents!” …But you’re missing the point.
The greatest gift that my parents ever gave to me wasn’t something that I found under the tree one Christmas, it was teaching me how to be compassionate towards everyone regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. At the age of twelve I would have rather been with my girlfriends on the Friday night that my parents took me to the soup kitchen, but I am forever grateful that I went (shout-out to you, Mom and Dad, you rock). My awkward pre-teen self refilling the forks and spoons on the buffet style table couldn’t understand why my parents made me go that night, but nineteen year-old me gets it.
It’s the idea that in order to grow ourselves, we have to be a part of others growth, too. I don’t mean literal growth. I mean spiritual or emotional growth. I was blessed to grow up with a roof over my head and shoes on my feet, but some of the people in the soup kitchen weren’t as lucky. Despite that fact, though, these men, women and children were the nicest and most grateful people I have ever come across. Some of these people were living in the shelter with just the clothes on their backs and whatever they could carry in their hands, while plenty of other people are spending their holidays swiping credit cards and spending money on things they don’t need.
The holiday season is about giving. It’s about family and spending time with those you love and care most about. Finding local soup kitchens or shelters to volunteer time your at is just one way to get back to the true meaning of the holidays. Running local toy drives for Toys for Tots or other organizations during this season of giving are a few more of the many ways to give back. This year, don’t miss the point, don’t scurry past the Veteran in front of the grocery store to beat the lines, and pay close attention to the gifts you’re being given that can’t be wrapped up under the tree.Â
Happy holidays, collegiettes!Â