By Emily Dawson, Contributing Writer 

These days, the true meaning of the holidays is often lost underneath the constant commercialization that envelops the holiday season. We find Christmas advertisements on display with Halloween costumes, and we find that Thanksgiving is often disregarded altogether. Just one day after remembering to be thankful, some people fight one another for the best Black Friday deals. Those who are willing to trample other shoppers for a sale should consider those who are less fortunate and those who need help and support throughout the holidays.

For those who are fortunate enough, the holidays should be a time to be thankful for what you have been given. The holidays should be a time to count your blessings, and to cherish time spent with family. That being said, many people don’t have that luxury. Some people don’t have family, a home, or even food to eat. Some people have become so wrapped up in materialistic items that they lose sight of what truly matters throughout the holiday season.

West Liberty student, Chelsea Williams, views the holiday season differently. Williams said, “I would rather go out, stay out all night and get better deals on items for my family, than sit around and stuff my face with turkey. I don’t see the point of it.” Those who leave their family on Thanksgiving to shop and add to an unnecessary list of possessions should consider spending their time and their money helping those in need.

Why not show some compassion and join in the efforts of The Salvation Army? The Salvation Army serves as a reminder of what the holiday season is truly about, and it aims to provide love and support to the homeless and to families in need. The Salvation Army says that “hunger, in the form of each hungry person we meet, literally stops at The Salvation Army’s doors, in our own community and around the world, every day of every week of every month of every year. Hunger stops here.”

Although it is disheartening, many people spend too much time focusing on materialistic items and not enough time remembering what holidays are truly about. These people need to appreciate what they have and need to be more considerate of those who suffer and need compassion during the holidays.

The holidays aren’t about fighting someone for a sale, how much money is spent, or how many gifts are received. The holidays are about giving back, being charitable, and giving to the less fortunate. The holiday season is a time to bring people together. Some people need to reflect on what truly matters, and need to re-prioritize the true meaning of the holiday season.