The Best Time of Year
Illustration by Sydney Hanson
By November 1st usually I have my Christmas playlist queued up, and plan to watch my favourite Christmas classics, yet this holiday season I feel almost no excitement. I’ve barely seen snow all month; people are wearing shorts outside instead of parkas; and I cannot wait for the time to pass. The last of assignments, exams, workdays are passing by excruciatingly slow. And as the days blur together, I don’t realize that December is almost passed, and my much-anticipated favourite time of year is practically over. This has felt like the least Christmas time yet.
My mom always grumbles about how Christmas is the worst holiday. While Christmas is a great opportunity to come together and give thanks to the people we love, my mom says it’s been ruined by capitalism, where overconsumption is the theme of the season. Before Halloween is over, Christmas decor is already filling up its own isle. This time of year is when the “best deals” are happening, so why not buy now? On top of buying gifts, there's the fancy wrapping paper, bows, ribbons, and stocking stuffers to think of. I don’t argue against the fact that Christmas has undoubtedly become concumerized. But it also, without a doubt, means so much more.
As the classic Christmas movies tell us: it doesn’t matter what gift you unwrap on Christmas morning, but rather the people you spend your time with. Perhaps, this happens with growing up. But what’s going to be under my tree is not the root of my excitement anymore. It is me asking my mom to make her Christmas chocolate bark for when I come home, and her agreeing. My girlfriends and I exchanging secret Santa gifts. Rewatching Elf and the Grinch with my family for the millionth time and enjoying it all the same. My hometown friends and I reuniting after being at separate schools for months. All month, I’ve been slouched at my desk cramming for culminating projects and exams. I find Christmas so special because when my dad calls me and I hear Christmasmusic in the background, his voice is just a little cheerier, which fills mewith so much excitement for the season.
I am so fortunate to have friends and a family I am excited to go home to- which is why I love this holiday so much because it’s an assurance that I will spend quality time with those I love. So, despite the fact that I have not felt partially festive this this year, I’m filled with hope and anticipation on my train ride home, excited for the gift of time with those I love.
