Holidays. They hold a special place in the hearts of many people around the world. These occasions are often marked by joyous festivities, cherished traditions, and time spent with loved ones. However, for me, holidays are just regular days. In this blog post, I will share my perspective on why I choose not to celebrate holidays and why I believe they hold little significance in my life.
The Start of a New Year
The first holiday that comes to mind is New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. While these days hold great significance for many people as they bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one, I find it unnecessary to celebrate this occasion. In my opinion, the concept of a “new year” starting on January 1st doesn’t resonate with me personally. Instead, I prefer to view my birthday as the beginning of my own personal new year. It is on that day that I reflect on the past year and set goals for the year ahead.
Memorial Day: Honoring Our Heroes
Memorial Day is a holiday dedicated to honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military. While I deeply respect and honor their bravery and sacrifice, I believe it is essential to remember and honor them every day, not just on a designated holiday. I carry their memory in my heart throughout the year, and it is a part of my daily gratitude and appreciation for their service.
Independence Day: A Historical Perspective
Independence Day is a celebration of the United States’ independence from British rule, commonly associated with barbecues, fireworks, and patriotic displays. However, as an African descendant of slavery, I cannot fully embrace this holiday. For my ancestors, the year 1776 did not signify freedom and independence but rather continued enslavement and oppression. It is a painful reminder of the struggles and injustices endured by my lineage. While I respect the significance of this day for many, it holds a different meaning for me.
Labor Day: Relevance in Today’s Society
Labor Day, traditionally observed on the first Monday of September, is a holiday that acknowledges the contributions and achievements of workers. However, in today’s society, I question the relevance of this holiday. With the changing dynamics of work and the gig economy, the traditional notions of labor have shifted. Many people now find themselves in non-traditional employment arrangements, such as freelancing or remote work. Additionally, issues like workers’ rights and fair wages persist, making it difficult to wholeheartedly embrace a holiday that feels somewhat obsolete in our modern world.
Thanksgiving: Unmasking the Truth
Thanksgiving is a holiday deeply rooted in American history, often associated with feasting, family gatherings, and expressions of gratitude. However, for me, Thanksgiving represents a painful chapter of distorted history. The story taught in schools often neglects to address the atrocities committed against Native American communities and the ongoing struggles they face today. Recognizing the true history and acknowledging the Native American perspective is crucial. Therefore, I find it difficult to celebrate a holiday that perpetuates a false narrative.
Christmas: Beyond Religious Beliefs
Christmas, a holiday celebrated by millions around the world, holds religious significance for many. However, as a non-religious person, I choose not to celebrate Christmas. I believe that expressing care, love, and appreciation for our loved ones should not be confined to a designated day. Instead, these sentiments should be expressed genuinely and regularly throughout the year. While I respect the traditions and practices associated with Christmas, it is not an occasion that resonates with me personally.
Other Holidays: Questioning the Necessity
Beyond the aforementioned holidays, there are numerous other celebrations throughout the year. From Valentine’s Day to Halloween, each holiday holds its own significance for different people. However, I often find myself questioning the necessity of these celebrations. Are they truly essential to our lives and well-being? While I understand the enjoyment and sense of community that can come with these occasions, I personally find more value in focusing on personal growth, fostering relationships, and finding meaning in the everyday.
Celebrating Milestone Birthdays
Although I choose not to celebrate most holidays, I do make an exception for milestone birthdays. These significant markers in our lives offer an opportunity for reflection, growth, and celebration. Milestone birthdays provide a moment to assess our accomplishments, set new goals, and express gratitude for the experiences and people who have shaped our journey thus far. While other holidays may not hold the same weight for me, celebrating my birthday on milestone years serves as a personal reminder of the passing of time and the importance of cherishing each moment.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, holidays hold different meanings and significance for each individual. For me, the reasons I choose not to celebrate holidays stem from personal beliefs, historical context, and a focus on meaningful connections throughout the year. I respect the traditions and practices associated with these occasions, but I find more value in embracing everyday moments, expressing gratitude regularly, and seeking personal growth. Ultimately, the decision to celebrate or not celebrate holidays is a personal one, and it is essential to respect the choices and perspectives of others as well.
“Holidays are not for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s about finding what resonates with you and creating your own meaningful moments.” – Van Phillips
Note: The views expressed in this blog post are the author’s personal opinions and should not be taken as a universal judgment or criticism of those who choose to celebrate holidays.
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