Every year during December I try to watch my two favourite Christmas movies, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Jim Carrey version) and A Charlie Brown Christmas to get me into the spirit of the holidays.

When I was a child I never realized why Charlie Brown seemed so depressed over the holidays.

One scene in particular that comes to mind is when he places a Christmas ornament on this small, flimsy tree he bought which wilts to the side.

Maybe he overlooked the tree that needed a little bit more love and care to be turned into something beautiful.

In a somber voice he says “I’ve killed it” which alludes to the fact he’s killed the meaning of Christmas with being so focused on trying to find the perfect tree and have a ton of flashy lights and decorations on it.

I think the holidays are supposed to be a happy time, free of stress and worry.

Charlie becomes depressed because of the commercialization of Christmas and the loss its meaning.

I can see where he’s coming from now because it’s still very much like that today.

Wish lists, stocking stuffers, bows, wrapping paper, toys, gadgets and more gifts of all shapes and sizes than one person can handle are the focus of the holidays for as long as I can remember.

Somehow through all of that, Christmas has lost its meaning and moved straight into one big advertisement for people to spend their money on useless, expensive things in large quantities that serve no real value or purpose.

In The Grinch, he becomes bitter and cynical to the point where he can’t even stand the sound of Christmas music playing.

He drowns it out with a blender full of nails and screws among other loud, annoying noises to help distort the voices of Whovillians singing in the heart of Whoville.

At the end of the movies both characters came to the realization that Christmas is more than just gifts and festivities, it’s about unity, a sense of family and togetherness.

I believe this is something people need to focus on more as the holiday quickly approaches.

To not be adamant on the money side of Christmas, to slow down in the midst of the shopping frenzy to think about the important things regarding the holidays.

Spending time with loved ones, giving your time to someone rather than money and sharing each other’s company is the best gift of all.