It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

November 8, 2011
Filed under Features

It is only October, but the Christmas spirit can be felt even if it is two months away. The weather is cooler, decorations are being sold in stores, and many students would rather cuddle up with hot chocolate and a blanket than do homework or study. In America, grocery and department stores seem to forget the holiday between Halloween and Christmas, and they go into December 25th overload. The quick transition from Halloween to Christmas can be somewhat abrupt, and soon people find themselves shopping for gifts in early November. However, getting back into the holiday spirit can be a fun time for many people as they remember the reason for the season.

As Halloween rolls around, Christmas decorations come out and American stores seem to forget that Halloween isn’t over yet. Is this a bother to Americans?  Bishop Gorman High School science teacher Ms. Migneron said, “I’m not bothered by it, but I don’t like how the three blend into one. We already have Christmas decorations out but Halloween hasn’t even happened yet. Thanksgiving sometimes gets flipped too.” Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas do seem combined, considering the fact that the holidays are all within three consecutive months. Caitlan Bertram (‘14) has a different opinion. “I look forward to Christmas right after Halloween. I don’t like Thanksgiving.” Tinsel, mistletoe, and cottony snow fill store windows and provoke a feeling of Christmas that warms the hearts of many Americans because it is a time for friendship, giving, and most importantly, Jesus.

Many people eagerly await the arrival of Christmas because it is their favorite holiday. During Christmas time, family and friends join together for parties and wintry outings. Many families have yearly traditions in which they participate. “One of my favorite Christmas traditions is having a party on Christmas Eve and then having another party on Christmas. I get back into the season by spending more time with my family” said Kasey Marks (‘14). Besides throwing parties and leaving cookies out for Santa, many families have an extra reason to attend church and mass, and they make annual shopping trips before Christmas rolls around. Early shopping allows families to catch good deals while they are available and avoid the Black Friday rush at the end of November. Ms. Migneron is an early shopper. “I start in September,” she said, “if I see good deals, I grab them up.”
As the countdown to Christmas begins, people often forget the true meaning of the holiday. Receiving gifts isn’t all that important when it is compared to quality time with family. Decorating the Christmas tree, baking cookies, or putting Christmas lights on your house can spread a little holiday cheer as well as bring the family together. After all, Jesus is the reason for the season, and He most likely expects his birthday to be a peaceful and serene time of year for everyone.

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