The Anti-Grinch

Grace Cho | December 12, 2022

Illustration courtesy: Ashleigh Kim

It’s Christmas season. The weather’s getting chillier, students are wearing their long padded jackets to school, and carols are being played on the radio 24/7. Christmas is a holiday that excites everyone with just a mention—for good reason, of course. There’s winter vacation, snow, hot cocoa, and most importantly... presents! As Jo March complained in Little Woman, “Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents.” And Jo’s right.

Whether it’s from Santa, family, or friends, receiving gifts can make anyone eager. However, as much as we all want to receive gifts, giving them to your loved ones should also be equal in value. Here are three reasons why we should all participate in gift-giving this winter-wonderland season.

1. Expressing Love

Although gifts aren’t the only thing that displays your gratitude, there’s a reason why it’s one of the five universal love languages. Giving a gift to someone makes them feel important and

cared for, a reminder that you’re always thinking of them. No matter if it’s a platonic or romantic relationship you share, let that special someone know that you’re treasuring the connection

you have with them.

2. Reconnect Relationships

As mentioned before, a gift can speak a thousand words. This is important to consider, as even the smallest gifts can reinforce a connection you have with someone. The receiver will feel much more thankful towards you, strengthening the relationship you already have with them and bringing you both even closer together. This gift-giving season, why not send a present to someone you want to contact again? Even to an ex-friend, a gift is something that holds great

Value.

3. Good for your Health

Research actually shows that gift-giving is good for your health, both physically and mentally. According to the US National Institutes of Health, gift-giving releases positive chemicals “such as serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin.” These are all related to our happiness levels, and they

can actually boost our spirits and emotions. Although there’s no certain evidence, there are also research studies that related gift-giving behavior to lower blood pressure and even longer

life expectancies. There’s nobody forcing you to buy a gift for anyone. In the end, it’s your choice. But with all these types of benefits, what’s the harm of exchanging Christmas joy? Christmas is a time of spirit and coming together. Don’t be like the Grinch and fail to appreciate those around you. Be an Anti-Grinch and start spreading the love. It’s not about the size, the price, or the brand of the gift. It’s about what’s in your heart and what you’re expressing with it. Don’t become the Grinch this Christmas, and take part in the jolly gift-giving tradition.