4 minute read
Holiday Traditions: Embracing the Spirit of Giving Over Receiving
WRITTEN BY SHANNON BEVER PHOTOS SHANNON CONRAD PHOTOGRAPHY
The holiday season is a time of joy, family and cherished traditions, but it can also come with a lot of pressure to “keep up with the Joneses.” Whether it’s the financial strain of buying the perfect gifts or the desire to make everything picture-perfect, this time of year can easily become more stressful than magical. If you’re feeling that pressure, consider shifting your focus from what you can “get” to what you can “give.” That change in perspective can open the door to creating meaningful new holiday traditions.
Last year we found ourselves unable to match the usual holiday spending, and with the desire to create more thoughtful and kind children, we decided to do things differently. We turned the spotlight away from receiving and instead focused on acts of kindness and giving to others. The experience was transformative for our family, and we discovered a deeper connection to the true meaning of the season.
Shifting the Focus: The Joy of Giving
Instead of asking our kids what they wanted for Christmas, we asked them how we could make someone else’s holiday brighter and told them that we would only be gifting one item to each of them that was something they needed, and not necessarily something they wanted. (Don’t worry we still let “Santa” bring one modest gift as usual). At first, they were unsure, but once we explained that we’d be focusing on giving back, they became excited. Together, we created care packages for a local shelter, baked cookies for neighbors and bought small gifts for a family in need. Each act of kindness became a memorable event, and the joy in our children’s eyes was something that couldn’t be matched by any gift under the tree.
To accomplish this without becoming overwhelmed or overextended we started a new tradition, the “Countdown to Christmas Chain,” inspired by the old-fashioned paper chains we used to make as kids. Instead of counting down to Christmas with chocolates or toys, we crafted a chain that focused on acts of kindness and family connection. Each link contained an activity to be done in the spirit of giving—like donating clothes, toys, homemade crafts, visiting a nursing home or spending time with loved ones. It was a simple but powerful way to keep the focus on generosity.
Teaching Gratitude and Compassion
By the end of the season our children weren’t thinking about what they didn’t get—they were filled with gratitude for what they were able to give. The lesson stuck with them beyond Christmas, and they continued finding ways to help others throughout the year. They had learned the most rewarding part of the holiday wasn’t the gifts but the joy that comes from spreading kindness.
Capture the Real Moments
As you introduce new traditions, don’t forget to capture these beautiful, unscripted moments with your camera. Don’t worry about setting up the perfect shot—focus on the real, raw moments that unfold naturally. Take pictures of your kids laughing as they deliver cookies or the proud smile on their faces as they pack donations. These candid memories are the ones you’ll treasure the most.
The Gift of Giving
In the end, last Christmas wasn’t about the presents we exchanged but about the experiences we shared and how we grew closer as a family by focusing on others. We learned that the true spirit of the season lies in giving, and those acts of kindness created lasting memories that no gift could replace.
So, this year, break away from the stress of “keeping up” and focus on what matters: love, connection and kindness. The best gifts aren’t the ones we find in stores—they’re found in the acts of giving that leave a lasting impact on those around us. It’s a simple way to start a tradition that centers on what really matters this holiday season!
Shannon Conrad own Shannon Conrad Photography Helena, MT.
