Editor:

Christmas may be seen as a big holiday in most peoples' eyes but for mostly the wrong reasons. Society has become focused on getting and accumulating objects, with advertisements fueling the desire for the consumption of more things.

This not only leads to greed but uneasy relationships because people do not care for one another as they used to.

We need to teach society the real reason for celebrating the season: to spend time with those you love and to give to others. Giving to those less fortunate can be way more rewarding than accumulating more inanimate objects.

Instead, ask a friend or family member to give to the less fortunate or donate to charity, rather than receiving a gift.

If everyone were to give up just one gift and instead give to the less fortunate, it would add up to make a huge difference, and you have the joy of making someone extremely happy on a day of giving. Also, take the time to spend time with your friends and family this holiday season.

Sarah Martens