All holidays have a purpose to them that originated at some point throughout the history of the world. Some holidays are celebrated with lots of pomp and ceremony while others pass with not much thought to the significance of them.

Some people like holidays while others find them rather an annoyance and just another day. Personally I always have loved holidays- both for the meaning behind the day but also for the practical side of them.

What is the practical point to holidays? Holidays provide a break from work (at least for most people) and a nice diversion from the day-to-day routine. Some people work long hours and work more than five days a week. These people deserve a break, and that is what holidays give to them.

Not to get too philosophical, but holidays also help to reinforce what is important in our lives. Holidays afford the opportunity to step back and reflect on the deeper meaning of life. A holiday is the opportunity to remind yourself that there is so much more to life than work and paying bills. Holidays remind us that we are a part of a larger whole and that the world has a long history full of both happy and tragic moments. So much has come before us, and yet we play a role in the continual unfolding of the planet. This is both comforting and exciting when you take the time to contemplate it.

Holidays also help us connect with family members. You can (and indeed should) express love and appreciation for those in your life all of the time but holidays provide a time-out from ordinary living to pause and be grateful. Presenting someone you love with a card or small gift on a holiday (even if it is not a traditional gift giving holiday such as Christmas or a birthday) is sure to bring a smile to someone’s face. Often that is all of the thanks you need to know that you did something very good!

I come from a family where holidays matter. No holiday goes unnoticed. There is plenty of candy and chocolate given on Valentine’s Day and at Easter and very often flowers, too! Mother’s Day is very special, as is Grandparent’s Day. We are not Irish, but Saint Patrick’s Day still warrants a lucky shamrock card sent to family members.

How about you? Do holidays matter to you?

Tweet This Post