Grinch cannot steal true Christmas spirit
by Lisa Seehusen, reporter

     It’s that time of year—the season that brings joy, laughter, presents, stress, greed … the list goes on.

     However, I wonder whether the meaning of Christmas has been lost in the midst of the busyness that life brings during this time of year. It is so easy to get absorbed in the materialism and selfishness that Christmas can bring to people.

     The malls fill with eager shoppers and children waiting in line to give Santa Claus their wish lists. All the captivating commercials on television promote the “give-me” spirit as advertisements appeal to people of all ages.

     Unfortunately, the best things that come with Christmas can bring out the worst in people. The new movie hit, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, reminds us of how ou

     Just like people in America, the town of Whoville is absorbed in the gifts, decorations and treats that come with Christmas. Similar to our society, the people in Whoville seek better lights around their houses than their neighbors have and try to outdo everyone else with bigger and better gifts and decorations.

     Cindy Lu Who is the only person in the town who wonders if there is anything more to Christmas than the artificial, temporary facade of gifts and decorations. As the story goes, it is only after the Grinch takes away everything from Whoville, that the townspeople unite.

     They realize they do not need any presents or delicious, fattening food to have a merry Christmas. They are the happiest when they come together and lift up thankful voices in jubilant singing.

     The Grinch is utterly confused at how the people can be so happy when he has taken their Christmas trappings away.

     When people think of the word Christmas, words like presents, Santa Claus, candy and ornaments come to mind. People’s perceptions become reality. Whatever they believe Christmas is about usually affects the way they act around this time of year.

     Wouldn’t it be wonderful if people thought of family and of giving and serving those around them when someone mentions Christmas?

     What is it going to take to bring us to remember the true meaning of Christmas? It is so easy to become selfish and get caught up in ourselves during this busy holiday season. Most children today believe that Christmas is a time for heaps of presents from Santa.

     We would all be happier if we would have the spirit of giving rather than the spirit of receiving. We would never be disappointed with the gifts that we receive if we find it more blessed to give than receive. After all, that is the purpose Christ had. He came to give the ultimate gift … His life … for us.

     In past Christmases, I used to go with my dad to deliver Christmas gifts to children whose fathers were in prison or to families who could not afford presents. It is humbling and eye opening to see the joy that comes to children’s faces when they get even just one present.

     Everything is put into perspective as I reflect upon how much I have and take for granted. Now, it feels much better to share my time and energy with others than on myself.

     Christmas is a joyous time to be with loved ones and share in making lifelong memories.

     I encourage everyone to take time during this busy holiday season to do something for someone else.

     You will be amazed at how much fun it can be to do something for another person when that person least expects it!