Commentary by Jim Serger
They’ll thank you later in life. For now, push, pull or drag those children. Christmas is a time for receiving gifts, through the eyes of children. However, a gift doesn’t necessarily mean a tangible item.
How much does a child really need that they haven’t already received throughout the year? The greatest present I ever received from my parents was the gift of positive, fun-filled memories around Christmastime. Sure, I remember the golf clubs, the Atari and receiving the high-top Pony shoes I thought I so desperately needed. However, at 47, the memories I have are the times I spent with my mom, dad and brother during the holidays.
I remember cutting down the Christmas tree and getting breakfast afterward; going downtown and seeing the lights; driving around the neighborhoods with the Christmas music on, all singing, acting corny and laughing; heading downtown to pick out the yearly Christmas ornament; seeing Santa; and window shopping, looking at the toy soldiers, the reindeer and, of course, the magnificent tree that was so massive to a child.
My parents had to drag me out to get the night started as a teenager. I thought I was too cool. Today, I cherish those moments with my family. At 7 as at 14, sometimes children don’t want to venture out without gaining something tangible. But I know your children will thank you later in life. When they are older, those times spent with family will be the greatest gift they have ever received.
To my parents, I love you with all I have. I am so thankful for the memories you created as well as the gifts Santa and you gave. The experience you created for me is the greatest gift you ever gave, and I’ll cherish that forever.
Jim Serger is a Carmel resident and author.
