What brings you joy during the holidays?
is the season to be jolly… Fa la la la la, la la la la… Though what is the real reason you are jolly? Is it vacation, relaxing time, presents, food, gatherings, friends, family? What is it that brings out the cheerfulness in you? You drive around with your family checking out the Christmas lights, go shopping for last minute items, make hot chocolate and cookies, dinner is set, maybe build gingerbread houses, all for the enjoyment of those you love. You checked your list and made sure everything is ready, nothing is missing. Now, let’s think about it?
Presents — material items are important if you want to be happy and feel content, but they will not give you happiness forever. Yes, it is essential to show appreciation in the form of a present, as it makes others feel special, and you are able to bless them with an unexpected gift. Your loved ones will know you took the time to find something of their liking to show your affection, but it will be the thought that will stay in their heart. Bear in mind it is always better to give than to receive; and give without expecting nothing back as giving should always come out of your heart and not as an imposition.
Food — they say gatherings are not complete unless there is food on the table. Most of us can agree with this; although it will not always bring out the happiness and joy we yearn to have. It may bring us contentment for the time being, as we will fulfill our appetites making our bodies feel satisfied, especially when enjoying our favorite holiday dishes and desserts. We hold our appetite all day so we may eat dinner happily and as much as we can from everything on the table, only to feel ashamed for having stuffed our faces with so much food. Three hours later we may experience a stomachache or headache from having eating so much, only to remind us how unpleasant we may feel now.
Friends and family — Yes, we all have them and we all need them, as friends play a huge role in our lives. They guide us, help us think through situations and can be the best “buddies” some of us may have, but they will never replace blood relatives. We must always remember who we are and where we came from, and always go back to our roots so we may guide our children to do the same. For some, family may be composed of a parents and children, grandparents and children or aunts, uncles and children. Still, other families are foster, adopted, temporary, or just all very close friends caring for each other. Nonetheless, all are members of a group of people who care for each other and are willing to help, love and appreciate everything each other does for one another. This is what makes a family and this is what brings out the cheerfulness and joy from everyone at any given moment. Although, having a family does not mean it will always be joyful as people are not perfect, but it is the good times which make all bad feel much better. They say reconciliations are the best part of every conflict in all kinds of relationships, and this is the best and most genuine joy there can be.
All you need now is for this year to end appreciating the wise, while getting ready for the best yet to come. Happy New Year 2018!
Magnolia Alonzo is Adult Education Program Coordinator for Somerton School District No. 11.