By Camden Crook, Staff Writer

It’s Christmas morning. The sun reaches the horizon as you and your siblings race downstairs. Your family gathers in the living room and the madness begins. You tear through the gifts, creating a mountain of discarded paper. Before you know it, every present has been opened. 

As you look around, you can’t help but feel a sense of emptiness. You realize that what made the pile of unopened gifts so exciting was the mystery surrounding them. Now that they’re uncovered, they lose their appeal. After all, they’re just material items.

In our society, the holidays are a time of giving. Typically, this means purchasing a present or giving money for a gift that will likely be forgotten in a year. I’m all for the gift-giving practice and the ideals behind it, but what I don’t like is what this season of “giving” has become. 

Why do we feel the need to spend an exorbitant amount of money in order to show people how much they mean to us? In my experience, the best gifts, to both give and receive, have come from one’s heart, not their wallet. 

If you really want to show someone how important they are, give them a meaningful experience. If you’re giving someone a thoughtful gift, you probably enjoy spending time with them. An experience is a perfect opportunity to enjoy each other’s company and make memories that will last longer than any material item. 

Take them ice skating, to a movie or a nail salon. If you’re feeling extravagant, a relaxing vacation might be just what they need. Or, if you’d rather save money this season, create a spa or movie night to enjoy at home!

If it’s not an experience you seek, you can always take the sentimental route. Printed pictures are my go-to gift; they’re thoughtful, cute and affordable! Just gather some of your favorite memories together, print them at your nearest Walmart or CVS, and watch your loved one’s face come alive as they flip through the photographs. You can even frame your favorites or arrange them on a decorative photo board.

No matter what you choose to give this holiday season, remember that it’s the thought that counts. It’s the effort, your thoughtfulness, that people will remember more than the price tag. Enjoy everything this season has to offer, especially the joy you receive from watching someone’s smile light up upon opening – or experiencing – your gift. 

Senior Camden Crook can be reached at crookca0109@daretolearn.org.