Begin the Celebrations: Why we could all use a little bit of Christmas spirit in our lives right now

With all of the unforeseeable events that have unfolded in 2020, everyone could use a little holiday spirit in their lives. Between college applications, my growing stack of homework and life being busier than ever, it gives me a sense of optimism to whip out my marshmallow pumpkin candle and vanilla bean noel hand soaps in preparation for the holiday season.

Although it may seem premature, by Nov. 1 you can find me humming “All I Want for Christmas” and digging through my basement to find my Ugg boots — even in the seventy degree weather we’re experiencing this month. With that being said, I’ll also be the first one in line to pick up my annual Toasted White Chocolate Mocha from Starbucks on Christmas Eve. 

It’s hard to believe that we’re already almost at the end of 2020, rightfully so. With this year being as hard as it was, I don’t think that anybody would be opposed to celebrating the holidays a tad earlier than usual this year. Let’s just say I was a little bit more than excited to string up my Christmas lights the morning after Halloween — even though Christmas was still two months away. 

With the addition of hybrid schooling for the past couple of weeks, it’s easy to get caught up in the routine of everyday life: sleep, school, homework, repeat, not remembering what day it is — which we all have been guilty of at some point during quarantine. But looking forward to Christmas morning and opening presents makes my stacks of homework and hours spent studying for Calculus tests somewhat bearable. It’s amazing how something as simple as seeing Christmas lights or an inflatable snowman in someone’s yard while driving by can instantly brighten my spirits on any bad day.

Even if it is too early to start thinking about putting a Christmas tree up or what present you’ll get your friends, it can’t hurt to have a little bit of cheerfulness in our lives right about now. 

While we’re told for the most part to burrow away in our houses for the foreseeable future, I can’t image a better way of spending my time indoors than celebrating a holiday with family. Especially since there’ll be limitations of festive activities this year, including ice skating and Secret Santa gatherings, we could all use some peace of mind by celebrating early this year.