The holiday season is a time that many people rightfully cherish. Colorful lights, whimsical radio tunes, and family get-togethers always seem to promise better things to come. The holidays also promote a sense of assistance to those in need, which is essential for the establishment of positive relationships. For me, December has always sparked a sense of euphoria within me. When December begins, I often find myself lost in the commercialism of the holidays. Jocular advertisements, heartfelt cards, and magical television specials have proven delightful to me since childhood. However, I understand that not everyone can find joy in these small things as easily as me. I am Max Tapper, and I am here to give you, my fellow students, some suggestions on how you can find joy in this holiday season. 

1. Listen to or Learn a Holiday Song

Everyone has heard them all. ‘‘Jingle Bells’’ and ‘‘Let It Snow’’ have been played on numerous speakers over the course of our lives. I am aware that the repetitive nature of these songs have been a source of annoyance for us as times, myself included. However, these songs have been written with the intent to give joy to boys, girls, and adults alike. The next time you hear ‘‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’’on your car radio, take a moment to note Brenda Lee’s tone as she sings. You should also think about what Johnny Marks’ purpose was in the creation of this song. If you play a musical instrument, try to take a minute to learn a holiday song. From my experience, ‘‘Jingle Bells’’ and ‘‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’’ are simple, yet enjoyable songs to play on the piano. Even if you are not the most confident musician, it can never hurt to take a step out of your comfort zone.

1. Write a Holiday Card to a Family Member or Friend

Since I could write, my parents and teachers have always taught me to value the expression of gratitude to my peers. Admittedly, I have not always taken the time to thoroughly express my thankfulness like I do today. The completion of a Mother’s Day card for my seven year-old self would range around one minute. However, as I got older, I would become more aware of the importance of detail when it came to thank-yous. What specifically did I appreciate my mother for? This was the question that would jog my thirteen year-old mind upon the arrival of Mother’s Day. Then, it hit me. Through all of the bedtime stories, Band-Aids, and scrambled eggs, my mother had always held a sense of unconditional love for me. Once this came into mind, I would find that I had expressed these exact thoughts onto the card. In the past three years, I have greatly developed my ability to express gratitude. Hence, I would like for you to gain these same abilities the next time you write a card to someone. When you write to a family member or friend this holiday season, try to think about what this individual has done for you over the years. Not only will your card be more thorough, but you will also feel a greater sense of accomplishment. You should embrace this sense of accomplishment as you have done what is right, not what is easy. 

2. Watch a Fun Holiday Movie

Films and television have always provided our generation a sense of entertainment as well as comfort. Colorful, lovable characters and winsome, relatable stories are what make classics such as Peanuts and Spongebob Squarepants household names in our community. The holiday season is a time where I especially appreciate how entertainment has impacted society’s ideas and interests. My personal favorite holiday special would be the 1969 animated film Frosty the Snowman. This television special opens with an introduction from Jimmy Durante, who serves as the narrator of Frosty and the children’s adventure. Durante’s narration has established a compassionate, gleeful mood within me upon rewatch after rewatch. I also find charm in the art style chosen, as it presents characters such as Hinkle the Evil Magician, Karen, and Frosty in a timeless, iconic fashion. If you are one for nostalgia, I recommend you find time to watch Frosty the Snowman as well as A Charlie Brown Christmas. Whether it is a ‘‘Happy Birthday!’’ from Frosty or a fir tree from Charlie, there is a distinctness that makes these specials irresistible for the whole family. 

3. Set Up or Look at Holiday Decorations

As you look around you, you will likely find that our school, and especially our neighbors, have begun to get into the holiday spirit. Once the banners, lights, and reefs come into view, you know full well that Santa Claus will be the talk of the town. Of course, we are at the age where we all know the unfortunate truth about Santa. However, it cannot hurt to celebrate the smiles that this character has put on the faces of children worldwide. If you would like, go to your Home Depot to purchase some decorations that star the man in red. However, do not feel the need to limit yourself to Santa. Other character decorations you can buy include Rudolph, The Grinch, or theoretically any childhood hero. Spongebob’s sunny smile might light up the tree more than any LED can. If you really want to get creative, try out some festive inflatables in your front or back yard. As for the  tree, consider the inclusion of an electric train underneath. Perhaps the Polar Express could make an arrival at your house! Of course, you do not have to do any of this if decorations are not your strong suit. Instead, you might want to take a family drive around the neighborhood to see other people’s work. The creativity of your neighbors might impress you, and that impression can lead to inspiration. It might surprise you how other people’s joy invites joy into your own life.

4. Visit A Family Member or Friend

I hold an immense deal of sympathy for those who have to spend the holidays alone. Certainly, some individuals are more social than others, and some might not be cut out for parties. However, for those who truly value the company of others, neglect and isolation can cripple them in an emotional context. So, if you have grandparents that seldom get visitors, you and your family should set a date to go see them. You also might have a friend who rarely gets to go out for whatever reason. Likewise, you should try to find time to visit those friends as well. Isolated individuals might not always show their gratitude when you come to visit them. However, always remember that they are truly thankful for your presence, even on days where it might not seem that way. Even though it might not always be easy, it is critical to put the needs of others before your own. Compassion for others is a gift worth far more than any Hess truck or LEGO set.