What Do "The Holidays" Mean to Me?

Throughout the years, the meaning of the holidays has changed and evolved for me. I spent most of my childhood in El Salvador, where Christmas meant I would get to play outside with family and friends lighting fireworks and waiting to see if Santa brought me what I wanted that Christmas.

As a teenager, the Holiday's meant school vacation and big family get-together, the white elephant game filled with so much laughter, the traditional Salvadoran turkey, and the presents.

As an adult, the holidays have been different, especially since most of my family has moved away and our get together is much smaller. I have focused on getting ready for it: the list of presents to get, preparing the food, cleaning the house, and thinking of when the holidays will end. Upon reflection, I realized that I have not been fully present. I have focused on the destination instead of the journey during the last few holidays.

It has taken a year like 2020 to remind me that the holidays are to spread joy and take time to connect with the important people in your life and live each day to its fullest. As I reflect, it was not the presents, food, or decorations that made the holidays so special. It was the precious moments experienced with the people I love and care for that make it memorable. I can share that joyful feeling just thinking about so many memories. We may not be able to spend this holiday season with all our family and friends, but the beautiful memories will always be with me.

Thank you to all of you that bring so much joy and life to my world.

I wish all of you a joyful and blessed holiday season!