Since the day after Halloween, department stores have been pulling out all of their Christmas decorations in an effort to jumpstart holidays sales. It is OK to be excited for many people’s favorite holiday, but nobody should be missing out on the present because they are too caught up thinking about something that is still two months away.

Far too often, people miss out on what is in front of them because they are too busy worrying or looking ahead. There is a big difference between planning ahead, being prepared and being obsessive. This is only intensified by big corporations pressuring consumers to start thinking of the holiday season earlier and earlier each year. Just this past weekend, an approximately 100-foot space in the Oswego Wal-Mart was decorated with Halloween, fall and Christmas decorations all in one, which was quite an overwhelming display.

The holiday season, no matter what your religion is or what holidays you celebrate, is a time for family and friends to join together. This cannot happen when people are too obsessed with what is to come and what needs to be done in preparation.

It is OK to be excited, but remember that Thanksgiving is also important and not only for the breaks from classes and the good food and time with loved ones. It is also important because it is a time for all our lives to slow down long enough to sit back and really think about our lives, what we are grateful for and the blessings we have.

The holiday season can be just as overwhelming as it is wonderful, and it is important to not skip past November as a time of reflection before the busy holiday month of December. Do not miss out on the blessings you already have. If we have learned nothing else from the world we live in, it is that nothing lasts forever and it is extremely important to take the time now to be grateful, loving and appreciative of what you have and for those around you.

By all means, do not miss out on those holiday deals. Just remember that there is more to this impending season than gifts and material possessions. Do not forget to slow down long enough to enjoy those around you and be grateful for what you have.