Towards the last few months of the calendar year, several things are guaranteed to occur. Shorter days, colder weather, and, of course, a questionable obsession with all things seasonal. Starting as early as September, people begin to fuss over pumpkin flavored foods, cozy candles, and Christmas music. The reasoning for this is quite simple: the holiday season brings people a sense of familiarity and comfort in otherwise uncertain times.
“I have a lot of memories of me as a child during the holidays. I remember decorating the tree, baking cookies, going on long drives, and all the Christmas music,” Nandana Shankar (10) said.
While growing older can make the world seem much darker, being surrounded by reminders of a simpler time is incredibly therapeutic. Consequently, blasting Christmas carols and splurging on seasonal items has become people’s way to relive the joys of their childhood.
“I think those memories have given me a really positive view on the holidays, because it’s such a happy season. It reminds me of family and being together, just all of the things we need to be reminded of in our day to day lives,” Shankar said.
So, while the obsession with the holiday season may seem like mindless consumerism, the joy that comes from Christmas movie marathons and hot chocolate is incredibly real.