By: Maxie Ryan Dashing through the snow to spend some time with your fellow extended family or in laws is not always the most pleasant endurance. There are far too many movies to count out there that show just how rough it can be. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and let’s not forget Die Ha...

By: Maxie Ryan 

Dashing through the snow to spend some time with your fellow extended family or in laws is not always the most pleasant endurance. There are far too many movies to count out there that show just how rough it can be. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and let’s not forget Die Hard (yes, it does count as a Christmas movie), are just a few demonstrations. Despite all the chaos each movie presents us with, it brings us back to peace and serenity in the end for a touching moment of love.

The holiday times are supposed to help us reflect on those moments of love and sacrifices that were made for us. At least, that’s what is taught to most who attended a religious class. It’s a time to reflect if you’re a Christian on the Lord and Savior who was born to save us from our sins. Now, I’m not going to get too religious and preachy here on you, but it is a nice radical thought, that there may be something greater for us in the afterlife. An opportunity presents itself to relish and bask in this hue of utter bliss if we do as we are called to do fulfilling our purpose.

There’s no doubt you do feel a sense of calmness if you attend a Christmas Eve candlelight church service. Seeing everyone’s face basked in a glow of warmth from the candles for a moment of acknowledgement is a sight to see. It can help take the Grinch and Scrooge out of your attitude as another cold year of hard work has caused your heart to grow colder. For a moment all is not as it seems, and you can relax and enjoy this scene. It’s like looking through the Dolorian’s window and seeing yourself as a child again. Remembering all the beauty and treasures the world holds. Instead of learning, as you grow up the world has sharp teeth and will sweep you on your butt so quickly, you’ll think you have whiplash.

Now, I know from my grim writing, you might think that I do not have the “cheeriest” of spirits, but let me put your mind at ease; I do love Christmas. The whole idea of everything the holiday encompasses and embodies. Christmas is a time of renewal when all life around our snowy environment is dormant. A mystic being was sent for mankind’s salvation. For everyone’s impurity and troubles we have caused and endured. Such a time to be alive and to know something greater exists out there.

It’s a time to reflect and repent. A chance to forgive yourself, for things that have been festering in your mind. The hardest part of life is being our own worst enemy. So many people put too much pressure on themselves. They think of themselves at times as unworthy of forgiveness, or love and compassion. This is a time to come and find your center and be right by yourself and your beliefs, whatever they may be.

Don’t let the fact that your cousin keeps bragging about how much they succeeded this past year, or the fabulous vacation they plan on taking in the spring get you down. Do not envy them, but rejoice for them that they are able to spend them with their loved ones and make fond new memories. Remember that the holidays show us it is a time to be giving, loving and demonstrate forgiveness. Rejoice in the family that boggles your mind completely on how you maintain everyday functionalities. Remember, family doesn’t have to be flesh and blood too. Give back by loving one another and remember that this celebration stems from history’s gift that was giving to the world. Happy holidays to you all!