'It is Better to Give Than to Receive'
A Christmas article featured in the Tribune about the importance and benefit of giving.
As Christmas is now quickly approaching, we are moving to get back into the usual holiday spirit with music, decorations, and the overall mood. Young kids are especially excited when Christmas morning comes around to see what is left for them under the tree. With all of the things that are going on, and our own lives getting busier with these events, it is very easy for us to miss the point of Christmas in the first place. The distractions are overwhelming, but sometimes, it’s a good thing to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of the season.
Throughout history, the Christian holiday of Christmas was to remember the birth of a Savior who gave his life for his people. The theme of “giving” is ever-present in the Christmas season. Many Christmas stories, such as “The Gift of the Magi” by O’Henry convey the theme, “It is better to give than to receive.” Although getting gifts seems more fun, we find ourselves more content in the fact of giving to others. Whether it be to charity, or a simple gift to a friend in need, giving makes us feel better about ourselves. Giving may seem to be a temporary loss, but it is money put to good use. Instead of us, ourselves, indulging in the things of life, it is much more satisfying to give. It brings us happiness to see the receiver’s surprised face when we give them something they thought they would never get from us.
Giving seems to be the mood behind the season, even kids do it. Younger children love to give gifts, cards, hugs, and so much more to their parents. In school, most teachers have young children make gifts for their siblings or parents. Most people enjoy giving because it shows that they love, care, and are compassionate about that person. It is a way for us to show our thanks for what they have done for us. It is truly “better to give than to receive.”
This article was originally featured in a 2019 issue of the Waukon High School Tribune which appeared in The Standard (a local newspaper serving the communities of Northeast Iowa, including my hometown, Waukon, Iowa).