Consumerism and Christmas

Maybe we've all heard enough about how commercial Christmas has become. It's become that way for a reason.

It's interesting seeing things from my new perspective as a poor, young, married, graduate student. Mom and Dad have always been able to spend money and make me and sister's Christmas memorable. I'm used to seeing tons of presents stacking up underneath a huge tree. This year's Christmas is different.

Matt and I splurged with our presents to each other, but this is certainly rare. Presents to the families and friends will have to be creative, and our Christmas cards are limited. Santa Claus won't be leaving even more gifts for us under our tree, but I'm okay with that. Several family members have asked us what we want for Christmas. We listed out a few, practical items that we wouldn't usually spend money on. Really, though, I had a difficult time listing things other than a Target gift card.

Not having a lot of disposable income (or even income for important things like food) creates challenges to be sure. But, I've learned contentment with my things. I don't covet the expensive, Pottery Barn decor, or that amazing blouse at Anthropologie anymore. I don't even browse the websites. Being poor helps me to prioritize where my money goes and helps me to organize wants and needs.

I'll admit that sometimes I feel like I'm a failure or that I'm left out because I can't spend money on my personal tastes. These feelings are definitely aroused when I'm around people bragging about what they can buy. But, I think that my feelings come from the devil trying to distract me from the ultimate goal of this life. Most of the time, I don't feel inadequate because I can't spend money on the little luxuries of finer, more expensive living.

What does buying into commercialism mean in the long-run anyway? Maybe other people will think you are cool because you collect expensive things. There's always going to be something bigger, cooler, and more expensive. I don't know that buying things is ever going to be completely satisfying. Yet, it's going to be something that's always at the forfront of this culture. I know it will be a temptation. Maybe this time of poorness will help me to remember how things are the key to happiness. I get so much satisfaction just enjoying the company of my husbands, friends, and family. My relationships mean more to me than anything I could ever own.