From Merry Christmas to Happy New Year, or Happy Holidays to Joyous Noel, we all seem to agree this is supposed to be a happy time of the year…but what is happy? What makes a “happy” holiday?
For some, it’s a sense of nostalgia, of tradition, or that “feeling.” For others it’s a special time of year to enjoy the company of family and friends. And sometimes, too often, it’s misconstrued as the hunt for or the desire to receive that perfect gift, and then comes one shopper pepper spraying another in the midst of a shopping frenzy inspired by the season. Or, it’s police interventions and shopper confrontations that result in injuries. Worst case scenario, as has happened before, it’s people being literally trampled to death because others “have to” get to the sale items first. That’s not “happy” in anyone’s book.
If this downturned economy could teach us anything, perhaps it’s that happiness is found with each other spending quality time, not in the “things.” The economy is challenging, but with challenge comes opportunity – opportunity to try something new, a different way.
This year I’m just taking it as it comes. I’m finding my happiness in the moment, not in the perfect gift, not trying to recreate the past. I appreciate tradition, and it can go a long way to help feel the continuity from previous holiday seasons or spark memories/nostalgia, but I’m also one to try something new to keep it fresh.
As far as that elusive “feeling” or getting into the spirit of Christmas, that’s probably just a desire to recreate a special time when things were new and magical. There’s no going back, no recreating the exact same experiences and feelings, so why not make something new and magical this year? Create a memory you’ll treasure next year and for many years to come. Try something new. Start a new tradition. Be adventurous. Be creative. Create happiness.
Make this a happy time of year, then try making it last more than just the season…and skip the pepper spray.
Happy holidays to you and yours!
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