BLOGMAS #23: WHY DO YOU LOVE CHRISTMAS
The picture says it all.
In truth, I'm not a big Christmas fan. On one hand, I don't like that we've essentially normalized and commercialized Christmas while ignoring the dozens of other winter holidays our citizens celebrate. On the other, I'm frustrated with the commercialization of generosity and charity. We shouldn't have to remind our littles each year that Christmas is about giving, yet we do because everyone they encounter asks about what they want without ever asking what they're excited to give.
Some may call me a grinch, but I don't want my kids to get excited about presents. I want them to get excited about two weeks of family time, about donating toys to shelters or volunteering at a soup kitchen, about cold nights under the covers with hot cocoa and marshmallows and movies.
Why do I celebrate? My littles.
For all my reservations, I'm addicted to our littles' joy. Every smile and every laugh are worth the grumbling, the reminders about charity and cultural inclusivity. I mean, look at those kids on Santa's lap. Who could say that moment wasn't worth the shopping for Christmas outfits, the marathon of getting them ready, or the frigid temperatures we encountered on the way?
Just this morning, the elves left a letter and some early presents for the littles. I couldn't even be mad that they were waking us up excitedly. I won't be mad tomorrow, either. Because their smiles, their happiness - that really is everything I love about Christmas.
