Why the Christmas Holiday Season Brings Out the Best in Us

The Christmas holiday is a time when the world seems to soften, even just a little. Strangers smile at each other, acts of kindness become more frequent, and a sense of goodwill fills the air. For me, this time of year always feels special—not because of its origins, which my family doesn’t recognize due to religious beliefs—but because of the collective spirit it inspires. It’s a season of giving, connecting, and reflecting, and it’s my favorite part of the year.

My Holiday Reflection

Growing up, Christmas wasn’t celebrated in my family in the traditional sense. We didn’t hang stockings, exchange gifts, or sing carols around a tree. Instead, this time of year was about slowing down, spending quality time with loved ones, and finding ways to give back.

One of my favorite parts of the season has always been the giving. Whether it’s through my church or workplace outreach programs, I find myself more aware of those less fortunate during this time. From donating food to volunteering my time, these moments of giving remind me that we’re all part of a larger community, and small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.

Christmas Holiday and the Spirit of Giving

There’s something magical about giving without expecting anything in return. When you give to someone you don’t know—a stranger who might be struggling—it shifts your perspective. It reminds you of how much you have to be grateful for and how interconnected we all are.

Studies have even shown that giving activates the pleasure centers of the brain, releasing endorphins and creating what’s known as the “helper’s high.” It’s no wonder we feel good when we help others—it’s built into our biology.

This season, I want to encourage you to experience this for yourself. Do one act of giving, not for a family member or someone you know, but for a stranger. It could be donating a meal, giving warm clothing to someone in need, or simply paying for a stranger’s coffee.

How to Get Started

If you’re unsure where to begin, here are a few ideas:

1. Donate to a Local Shelter: Many shelters need warm clothing, non-perishable food, and toiletries during the winter months.

2. Pay It Forward: Cover someone’s coffee, groceries, or gas unexpectedly.

3. Volunteer Your Time: Soup kitchens, food banks, and community centers often need extra hands during the holidays.

4. Create a Care Package: Put together small kits with essentials like socks, snacks, and hygiene items to give to someone in need.

5. Join Efitmi Holiday Giving: This year I'll be doing my own initiative at the Mount Olive Basic School in my community. I'll be collecting toys and other goodies to gift kids for the holidays. If you want to contribute to this initiative, then you can send me a DM on Instagram or sign up here.

Make It Personal

Once you’ve done your act of giving, take a moment to reflect on how it made you feel and what it might have meant to the person on the receiving end. I’d love to hear your story. Share your experience in the comments or on social media, and let’s inspire others to do the same.

Final Thoughts

The holiday season, for all its complexities, has a way of bringing out the best in us. It reminds us to slow down, connect with those we love, and extend kindness to those we don’t know. It’s not about the origins or traditions but about the spirit we create together.

Let’s make this season one to remember—not for what we receive, but for what we give.

Join our Holiday Giving initiative here! Share your act of giving this holiday season in the comments or on social media with the hashtag #EfitmiHolidayGiving. Let’s spread kindness together.