Our society has become materialistic, and everything costs an arm and a leg. In this competitive world, families have set their sights on living as lavishly as possible—especially during the holidays. Parents want to buy their kids the biggest “toys,” the latest technology, and the trendiest fashion.
Our values have certainly changed, because for me, the magic of Christmas was dinners around the table, my first glass of punch with a splash of vodka in it—as if my mom had just let me go to the moon. I much preferred seeing my family together to the value of the gifts. What made me even sadder was seeing my classmates when we returned from the holidays—when they hadn’t gotten what they wanted or, on the contrary, had received gifts that cost twice as much as what I’d gotten. So appreciate what you’re given! Your parents worked hard for months to save up!
Now it’s my turn to have kids to spoil during the holidays—and not just once, since my daughters were born a few days before and after Christmas. Yes, yes, both of them! How’s it going? We live in a beautiful house in the countryside; the girls run around and build snowmen; they have lots of friends over for their birthdays; about thirty gifts each; cake; lots of decorations; the house is overflowing with joy—we’re so happy.
Oh no, wait! I was daydreaming…
How’s my holiday season going? It’s stressful!
The stress of preparations, of organizing three parties, of managing a multitude of guests? NO! Financial stress! A small family living in a small apartment, with jobs classified as “student jobs” in their job descriptions, with debts, payments deferred every month, late payments, and groceries sometimes picked up from food banks. My daughters won’t have tablets, the latest fashions, or games that cost three figures, etc. Even though Walmart or Dollarama will be my best friends for years to come, I know that what matters most will always be the sparkle in their eyes and their love for the people around them.
Don’t get discouraged if money is tight or if you give your child a less expensive gift. Even if you can’t afford outings to a hotel or a fancy restaurant, what matters most are the family moments that will remain etched in your hearts—far more than the gifts themselves.
So, this holiday season, whether your pockets are empty or not, rejoice in the love around you and give yourself a break from stress—your children are happy despite everything, and we must remember what truly matters, not material things.
Happy holidays!