Barbies, American Girl Dolls, LEGOs, craft sets, board games and millions of other toys are eagerly ripped open on Christmas day. Soon upon the gift being revealed, it is either set to the side, played with later over the winter holiday or torn from its box, ready for immediate play. Yet, the love and care the gifts initially receive will deter over time as other priorities take hold. Despite the tangible gifts fading in importance, the past memories of the holiday, an irreplaceable present, strengthen in value. Ultimately, each moment, both during the holiday season and not, symbolize a unique present that should not be taken for granted.
The holidays are filled with nostalgia, of both the magical Christmas spirit and family memories. The anticipation of Santa Claus’ arrival, the entire family being together and liberation from any school responsibilities made them a special time, worthy of reminiscing. However, as a child, while ample moments of immense bliss persisted, it was difficult to capitalize on the act of being truly present during this time, and instead overemphasize the negative moments. “I regret not being present for “silly” things like my little sister’s elementary school concert and graduation, as I’ve watched her grow up I felt like I just skipped seeing the result,” said an anonymous LHS student.
For several LHS students, including myself, remembrance for the loved ones that have passed away distorts the holidays as a bittersweet time. Complex and unpredictable emotions of grief attempt to fill the void, never succeeding, and Christmas cheer serves as a reminder of what has been lost. In turn, LHS students who have experienced loss face defeating feelings of regret over not appreciating the person or past moments enough. “I remember refusing to eat some schnitzel [my grandpa] had made, and that was the last memory I have of him because he lived in Germany, so I didn’t get chances to see him often,” said an anonymous LHS student.
Although a loved one passing away teaches the lesson in an unfortunate way, it becomes permanently embedded into one’s life – life will never be perfect, but there will always be something good happening in the midst of all the bad, and in turn a moment to celebrate and cherish; furthermore, even the bad moments are worthy of attention because they are equally as much a part of life as the good moments. In face of grave situations LHS students maintain a similar attitude of being present and grateful for the moment. “I saw one of my best friends for the last time over Christmas break this past year, the month prior she had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and we knew she didn’t have much time left, so going into that hang out I turned my phone off cleared my mind and let myself truly be in the moment with my friend,” said an anonymous LHS student. “If I don’t stay present, I miss the memories, and someday memories may be all I have left of someone,” said another anonymous LHS student.
While reflecting and appreciating the past is important, it is equally important to not let it take away from the current holiday. Over time, this festive season will change, each one bringing its triumphs and struggles, emphasizing the significance of appreciating each moment because it can never be repeated or taken back. “It is especially important that we are in high school because in four or less years we won’t be living with our family, we won’t see them every day, so time with them is something to be grateful for,” said an anonymous LHS student.
Christmas is filled with tangible presents; yet, the best present appears invisible, fleeting and far too often forgotten. Reminiscing about the past and acknowledging the changes that will happen over time highlight the importance of it. Ultimately, the past cannot be changed, and the future cannot be controlled, but the present remains an eternal gift.
