What does this season mean to you?
Maybe one (or more) of the holidays this month has particular religious significance for you. Maybe you don’t celebrate any holidays, but you enjoy the season anyway, as well as the opportunities for generosity and cheerfulness it brings.
Maybe December brings back childhood memories of snow angels and light displays, or maybe you just relish the opportunity to unearth that special Christmas sweater from the back of your closet.
Despite what the Mayan calendar might say, 2013 is coming. It’s a fresh start, a chance to start over and do things differently. But before the date rolls over, take advantage of this time. Do something special. Take time to hang holiday lights; write cards or letters to loved ones; build a snowman; or even just take a moment to appreciate those Coca-Cola cans with polar bears on them.
Don’t just do it for yourself, either. The holiday season is the perfect time to share with others. Try donating a few dollars to a favorite charity, or volunteer your time in the community. Additional random acts of kindness are always in season, but they can be especially meaningful during the holidays. Help a stranger carry groceries across an icy parking lot, or hold the door open for someone you’ve never met.
Of course, between decorating, gifts, parties and everything else, it’s easy to go overboard during the holidays. Case in point: Black Friday. While it can be fun to get caught up in the spirit of things, it’s important to leave time to relax and take advantage of the holidays as a time to unwind, recharge those batteries and reflect before tackling the challenges of a new year.
Opinions expressed in editorial and opinion articles are the views of individual NIC students. These views do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Sentinel, North Idaho College, or any other organizations or groups there-in. North Idaho College is not responsible for the accuracy of statements or opinions shared.