The holiday season is well underway, which means Christmas commercials and movies are plentiful. Each year, we become more and more familiar with our favorite Christmas classics, which might include Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, The Santa Clause, and Home Alone, just to name a few. But, have you ever stopped to think about the life lessons that our favorite holiday flicks teach us?
With the holiday season underway, we invite you to pop some popcorn, curl up with your favorite blanket, and take some great advice from some our favorite holiday movie characters:
Elf: Smiling is Contagious
The holidays are an exciting time of year, but they can also be stressful. And, sometimes a simple smile can bring such joy to yourself and others. To help spread holiday cheer, try giving a smile or two as you make your way around town or to family gatherings this season.
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas: Everyone is Capable of Showing Love and Kindness
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year to help others in need. While the holidays can be a joyous time for many people, they can be tough for others. Giving back to your community during this time of year can be especially rewarding and make a difference in someone else’s life.
At the Y, you’ll find many ways to give back through volunteering or making a gift to the Y’s financial assistance program, which helps to ensure that no one is turned away from the YMCA due to the inability to pay.
The Santa Clause: Sometimes Your Life Can Change Completely in a Single Moment. Sometimes that Change Can be the Most Magical
Making changes in your life allows you to open doors to new opportunities. Whether it’s focusing on your health and well-being, engaging in a social group or trying a new sport, the Y encourages and helps support members to achieve their greatest potential.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Never Be Ashamed of What Makes You Different. Your Differences Are What Make You Special
Sometimes it can be difficult to embrace your differences, but your ideas, actions and perspectives are essential to those around you. At the Greater Joliet Area YMCA, we are dedicated to fostering a culture that promotes the goals of accepting, respecting and valuing differences amongst all members, staff, volunteers and guests. And, we strive to create a welcoming environment that’s inclusive and open to all.
For more heartwarming Christmas movies, check out the full article, courtesy of Odyssey.
To learn more about our programs or to make a year-end gift to the Y’s Annual Campaign, please visit our website or stop by the Membership Desk during your next visit.