There are Christmas trees leaning on grocery store walls, the wafting aroma of pine needles and peppermint and there’s a sparkle in the air. Ornaments hang, presents are wrapped, snowmen are built, and the Aspen trees are brimming with twinkle lights. Its that time of year again.

People typically think of Christmas as Santa, stockings hanging on the fireplace, gifts under the tree, and yummy food. But what actually is the real meaning of this holiday celebrated by millions around the world?

Simply put, the celebration of Christmas is love. Christians celebrate Christmas out of gratitude for what God did to them; a remembrance of Jesus’s birth by giving gifts and being especially conscious of the poor and less fortunate.

However, this doesn’t mean that Christmas is a purely religious holiday because not only Christians celebrate it. Nine out of 10 Americans celebrate Christmas, and in fact, according to The Pew Research Center, 81% of non- Christians celebrate Christmas as well. So if it’s not about the presents or the religion, then what is it about?

This holiday has become incredibly materialistic over time. It’s more than Barbie Doll toy houses and Batman cars waiting under the tree. Though modern society has evolved this way, Christmas should not revolve around the gifts but the importance of loved ones and life instead. Though you may remember those plastic toys for a year or two, but you will remember your family and friends for your entire life.

This holiday season, keep in mind the genuine important things and values in life. Appreciate your loved ones, your rare experiences and the extraordinary town we live in.  Don’t spend all of your winter break searching for gifts, when you can spend meaningful time with family and friends instead.