Painted pumpkins and ceramic jack-o’-lanterns currently rest outside many of my neighbors’ doors. Nevertheless, this week, I surprisingly heard familiar tunes I usually associate with the month of December. Indeed, before our local Targets and Walmarts have even had time to remove Halloween supplies from their shelves, companies have begun paying for advertisements brimming with holiday cheer.
Part of me wants to roll my eyes at the seemingly earlier-every-year commercialism, but as it happens, I’ve sort of found myself in the “Season’s Greetings” spirit. Over the last few weeks, I’ve gradually been checking names off my “I still need to buy a gift for this person” list. With every package that thumps on my doorstep (I would complain about delivery drivers just tossing my mail on my welcome mat, but if I had to climb stairs with multiple boxes in my arms every day, I might end up doing the same), my anticipation grows.
In less than two months, I get to see my parents, siblings, nephews and spouse open presents that I know will make their eyes light up with genuine glee, and I long for that affirming moment when I know all the time and thought I put into each gift was worthwhile. I would excitedly gush about what I got each of them and why, but there’s a non-zero chance that one of them may read this editorial, and the last thing I want is to forfeit the surprise. So no spoilers for you! (Catch me at Kroger if you’re not on my shopping list and ask if you want the skinny in person).
While I know some people stress themselves out over gift-giving—worrying whether the recipient will actually appreciate the present—I truly love putting how well I know someone to the test and finding a gift or gifts that are the right mix of practical and sentimental for that person. Sometimes I choose something based on that person’s hobbies. Sometimes I’ll hear them talk about something they loved as a kid, and I get to watch that person go back in time and relive a dozen childhood memories all at once. Oftentimes, I see someone pick up an item at a store, stare at it longingly and set it back down—only for me to sneakily walk by and snap a photo so that I can remember that item as a possible present for later.
Why go through such lengths for gifts, you may wonder. Well, seeing their joy brings me joy. That spark of excitement that transfers between giver and recipient is a two-way source of happiness that makes me feel connected to those I love. Human beings need those moments of connection.
Personalized gifts for friends and family, however, are not the only way to let yourself feel connected to your fellow Mississippian. You can get that rewarding feeling of knowing you’re bringing someone joy during the upcoming holiday season by donating to various charities and initiatives that serve people in this state.
Halo of Hope, for instance, is a nonprofit based in DeSoto County that connects Mississippi children and senior citizens with sponsors who “then shop for their selected child or senior, providing essential items and thoughtful gifts that bring joy and relief during a season that can otherwise feel overwhelming,” its website reads.
Families needing a little extra help during the holidays can apply for sponsorship, providing small wishlists that potential sponsors can browse online. Ka’Mariyon, a 9-year-old child from North Mississippi, says he would love a bike, a football and a pair of skates, for example. Ava is an infant girl who needs sippy cups and a stroller, and Martha is an elderly resident who would appreciate a purse or a new pair of shoes.
Many of us can empathize with parents facing financial hardships who still want their children to jump for joy this December. Times can be tough, but for those of us who have even $50 to spare, I believe initiatives like these are worth investing in.
Moreover, many organizations are holding toy drives across Mississippi, like the North Mississippi Medical Center’s Pediatric Unit and the First Responders of Mississippi. Hattiesburg will bear witness to the eighth-annual Toys for Tots paintball tournament, whose entry fee is an unopened toy. Meanwhile, in Scott County, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks is organizing the third-annual Santa on Wheels Toy Drive and Car Show at Roosevelt State Park.
And hey, while that spirit of generosity is flowing through you, consider contributing financially to a Mississippi nonprofit whose mission aligns with your values, be it the Little Light House, the Mississippi Food Network or even the Mississippi Free Press. I know that Dr. Tami Jones, our director of revenue operations, appreciates the plug, and we at the MFP all appreciate the support our readers provide. We know you don’t have to give us anything, so every dollar proving that you believe in us makes a difference and motivates us to continue. Thank you.
Paying our blessings forward is a way to fill our hearts with contentment and gratitude. Whether they’re friends, family or strangers, bringing a smile to someone else’s face can add some joy to your life as well.
This MFP Voices opinion essay reflects the personal opinion of its author(s). The column does not necessarily represent the views of the Mississippi Free Press, its staff or board members. To submit an opinion for the MFP Voices section, send up to 1,200 words and sources fact-checking the included information to voices@mississippifreepress.org. We welcome a wide variety of viewpoints.