Student Publications
University of Houston
151C Communications Bldg
Houston, TX 77204-4015
713.743.5350

©1991-2007
Student Publications,
All rights reserved.

Last modified:

Contact:
ktruitt@uh.edu

Opinion

Put fellowship atop Christmas list

Darrel A. Holnes
Opinion Columnist

This holiday season many people are expecting gifts, trinkets and treasures, and it's only natural that you do too. Yet, in addition to toys, perfume sets and iTunes gift cards, we must remember to expect and give what is lacking most among us: sincere camaraderie. 

Instead of wishing for your parents to send you the latest iPod, digital camera or Kanye West album, hope that they eagerly pursue and better their relationship with you. 

Even if there haven't been any problems between you and them or other relatives, it's important that compassion and camaraderie be at the top of your Christmas list, for when you expect it from others, they will give it and eventually expect it from you. 

This is the ultimate in holiday experiences. 

Over the Thanksgiving break, I was able to experience this wonderful feeling. Though Thanksgiving is a time of thanks and arguably less a time of giving or expecting gifts, I received a wonderful gift. That gift was the sensation of sincere camaraderie and compassion. 

I was welcomed into the home of a friend, Jennifer Saul, who lives in Katy. Her family was extremely warm, welcoming and understanding of my longing to be with my family overseas. This sensation is what I appreciated most from them, more so than the delicious food and interesting conversation. When I return home in a few weeks, I will be expecting, and also willing to give, the same compassion and camaraderie shown to me by the Sauls, Coxes and Fraziers, (Jennifer and her relatives) to my family. By expecting these things, you are already valuing time well spent with others over money and possessions; once you receive them, the sensation only adds to the excitement and joy of the holidays.

So if you are wondering how you can have the "crunkest" holiday ever, put brotherhood atop your Christmas list and make sure that's the first gift you give out this holiday. Take advantage of the availability of your family and friends. Catch up with them on what has been going on in their lives. Make amends with those you have pushed away or fought with, and most importantly, appreciate their company and the moments you share -- who knows how many more opportunities life my grant you to reconnect with loved ones. Appreciate the holidays for the unity they provide and you will surely have a blast.

It's a bit typical and trite to remind you all that peace and love is truly what the holidays are about -- most of you know that. Do not just believe that by giving a gift that you are sharing in the holiday spirit you "came out your pocket." Take this time to reflect upon your actions throughout the year and make yourself available to those from whom you have been hidden. Share in traditions that have been passed down or that you have created. Sincerely appreciate those around you. Continue to be a Cougar with a conscience, and most importantly, enjoy yourself. 

Holnes, an opinion columnist for The Daily Cougar, 
can be reached at daholnes@mail.uh.edu