Christmas Tree Lighting 2023 The Xavierite
With winter quickly approaching, I can’t help but feel a dread for the freezing temperatures and how fast night falls. The dread always makes me forget how much love and joy the winter can bring. Yes, Chicago winters are deadly and can make us feel down, but there are so many opportunities to keep our hearts warm.
Just last week I walked out of the Xavierite office into a pitch dark parking lot. It was only 5 p.m. I was soon reminded of winter’s approach and the seasonal sadness that comes with it. As the sun sets earlier, I can’t help but feel the day is already over.
Oftentimes I’ve chosen to sulk over this, but I’ve just come to realize that I can make winter what I want it to be. If I choose to let myself sit in misery, then that is the winter I make for myself. I overlook the seasonal joy, the numerous activities I can do with friends and how much time I can spend with family.
With December sneaking up on us, I am constantly reminded of the holidays. I’m already starting to see Christmas decorations outside my neighbors’ homes and lit up trees through their windows.
I think many of us are caught up on getting to where we need to be, that we walk straight past these decorations. A second to stop and look wouldn’t hurt.
I do think the holiday spirit rubs off from just admiring these efforts and is something we can try leaning into to make us feel uplifted. It even starts to get me in the mood to hum Christmas songs on the way to my bus stop.
Additionally, many businesses release tasty seasonal drinks or treats that are worth trying. Currently, Dunkin Donuts has toasted white chocolate flavored coffee and my favorite at the moment; cookie butter lattes.
Even while I’m in line waiting to order, I’m met with hanging garlands, shiny ornaments and cheerful holiday music. This time of year is when I see the most holiday spirit being spread. It can help remind people of all the moments they’ve shared with loved ones, which always brings a smile to my face.
I reminisce of previous winters with my family and the laughter we shared. Last winter I made up every excuse to go out with friends and do something fun, since I’d usually stay in.
During November we came together and threw a Friendsgiving.
By the time we all got together, we had a table filled with a variety of warm foods and baked goods. It gave us a chance to chat and catch up, while tasting new foods. It’s a tradition that we started and something we now look forward to.
Creating annual winter traditions is a simple way to make the season more enjoyable. Every year Chicago hosts a big tree lighting down in Millenium Park. Last year was my first time going with my sisters and friends.
It was definitely a special experience walking through packed crowds bundled up in coats with earmuffs and mittens. I remember that day it was freezing cold, but I was so distracted by the beautiful lights and the excitement of the tree.
Visiting the tree lighting isn’t the only activity to help keep our spirits up either. When the snow starts to fall we have a chance to make snowmen or snow angels and go sledding. There are so many experiences waiting to be lived, I’ve barely dipped my toe in all winter time activities.
I believe the winter brings us a long list of things that can only be done during that season. It makes those moments so valuable since they come yearly.
There aren’t many moments or excuses that my big family has to come together and connect, except during the winter holiday season. Since it’s so cold we are almost forced to come closer together and keep eachother warm.
Winter doesn’t have to have such a dreadful reputation, when it’s offering us endless moments to be close to family and friends.