Christmas is easily the most commercialized holiday of the year. Throughout November and December, all are bombarded with advertisements telling you what to buy for your friends and family. It cannot be denied that the act of giving gifts has become a central theme of Christmas. The act of giving itself is a very Christian ideal. We are taught to give our time to those that need it, and our love to all those who will have it. However, as of late, it seems that Christmas is becoming more about receiving presents than it is about the act of giving. By no means is it bad to enjoy receiving gifts from people. In fact, it is only human. However, I believe that there is something to be said for the joy one can find in the act of giving.

This does not mean that we should buy more expensive things for more people. It means that we need to find other ways and other things to give. During the Christmas season, we celebrate the birth of Christ. Arguably the best way to celebrate the birth of Christ is to actively live out his message. This Christmas, consider giving your time to those that need it. Instead of buying that sweater for your aunt that she will never wear, consider giving your money to a charity you find to be worthwhile. Everyone loves giving and receiving presents. It has become a large part of Christmas, and it really makes this a great time of year. Enjoy that part of Christmas, but remember why the holiday exists in the first place. It is a time of year where we can all celebrate the act of giving, and the happiness it can bring to many people. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, give in as many ways as you can to as many people as possible.