Creating Unique Christmas Traditions
Christmas is a time when families come together to celebrate, but the way we celebrate can vary a lot from one household to another. In my family, the boys have grown older, and our Christmas traditions have evolved in ways that might surprise those who are used to more traditional practices.
A Non-Santa Christmas Eve
When our sons were younger, we didn't quite follow the Santa Claus tradition. Instead of waiting for Santa to deliver presents, we had a unique way of preparing for the gifts. We would place the presents on the floor around the Christmas tree, and they would remain untouched until Christmas Day. This approach was a departure from the common practice of hiding gifts, as I have noticed that in some families, children become notoriously impatient and try to open presents before the designated time. As shown in the picture below, this method ensured that the joy of gift opening stayed fresh and exciting for the entire day.
It's important to note that in our house, we never had to worry about the presents being peeked at by our boys. Instead of trying to hide the gifts, we would simply wait until they had all gone to bed to place the presents on their beds. The next morning, with a sense of wonder and excitement, they would find that Santa had indeed visited throughout the night. Often, in the early hours of Christmas morning, they would wake up before anyone else, eager to open the presents before breakfast.
Focusing on Family Over Individualism
A few years ago, I spoke to a young boy who expressed his joy at receiving more presents than anyone else this Christmas. This attitude, while gratifying for the child, can sometimes lead to a sense of selfishness and materialism. Many children feel a strong sense of entitlement and focus solely on what they expect to receive, without considering the needs or happiness of others.
At our house, we take a different approach. We gather around the Christmas tree after our big meal and open presents together as a family. This makes the experience more communal and enjoyable. After enjoying a Christmas dinner, we settle down to enjoy the thrill of opening presents together, fostering a sense of togetherness and mutual happiness. In this way, Christmas is not just about receiving presents; it is also about the joy of giving and sharing with one another.
A Joyful Christmas Eve
As Christmas Eve approaches, I take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and to step away from Quora for a few days. This holiday season, let us remember to enjoy the moment and the company of loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime.