As we enter the holiday season once again, it can be easy to think we’re in troubled times for our country. The impeachment process involving President Trump rages on, and the 2020 election looms on the horizon as another episode of fractious debate. It may seem like there’s not much any of us can agree on, or that things are destined to get worse in the new year. However, the holiday season has arrived just in time to remind us of what really matters.
With the cold winter arriving here early in Minnesota this year, it almost seemed to exacerbate the chilly effects of what had already been building throughout the year. Following the midterm elections last year, open conflict between the Democratic House and Republican Senate has been all over the news. The Mueller investigation into President Trump concluded, and another investigation, resulting in impeachment proceedings, is currently underway.
As if that wasn’t divisive enough, another election is coming up quickly. Many of us can clearly remember the 2016 election and the intense debates that raged as Clinton and Trump supporters argued on TV and across dinner tables. It looks to be more of the same as many Democratic candidates look to be the nominee to face off with the president in 2020.
Through all of this debate and bluster it’s sometimes tough to see what our country has in common. Not just in politics, it feels like we know our neighbors less and aren’t as knowledgeable about our communities as a whole. It’s easy to feel that way when it doesn’t look like there’s a solution in sight. Entering the holidays though, I think the messages we share throughout this time are things that can help us throughout the year.
Once the Thanksgiving turkey has been eaten and the Christmas and holiday season comes upon us, the festive atmosphere quickly takes over. Shopping deals for presents are advertised everywhere. The radio and music services turn into a compilation of songs old and new that we only roll out for this time of year. There’s snow on the ground, and lights strung across houses.
These changes in appearance reflect the changes in attitude and outlook the holiday season brings. It’s a time for giving, sharing, being with family and friends. Along with the new year, it’s a chance to reflect on how the year went for us, enjoy what we have, and decide what we want to do next. In our fast-paced, modern world, it should be a welcome break to be able to slow down a bit and really have quality time.
It’s almost like the world becomes a little bit of a nicer place too. Like one of those Hallmark holiday movies, people go that extra mile to show they care and appreciate people. Holiday parties and gift exchanges provide a chance for coworkers to connect and bell ringers fill the air with music for a good cause. You hear people say “Happy Holidays” and “Merry Christmas” with a cheer. It’s an infectious energy for feeling good and bringing people together.
These feelings aren’t just something we should leave for the holidays. We should take them with us and remember them as we move into 2020. The values of giving, generosity and family have the power to unite across all sorts of divisions. The holidays ultimately help us to remember we are all here together, and show us how much we all really have in common.
So stay connected with family, even if they’re far away, greet your co-workers or classmates with a smile, get involved and give back to your community around you. If we make all of the year a little bit more like the holiday season, the world will certainly be a better place.
Connor Kockler is a student at St. John’s University. He enjoys writing, politics and news, among other interests.
