Editor’s Note: Student Union’s weekly columns are a joint effort of the region’s high schools, the Bangor Daily News and Acadia Hospital. This column was written by Schenck High School students. Their adviser is Charla Lowell.

It is definite that the Christmas season is upon us. To some, Christmas is a time of shopping, gift giving and spending; but let’s not forget the true meaning of Christmas, which in reality is not always apparent. This yuletide season is a time for reflection on memories and traditions, as well as on family, giving and good will.

The memories we hold deep in our hearts are priceless. The Christmases of yesteryear were rich with traditions like family gatherings, going to church and celebrating the holiday. Memories of being outside on cold days, hanging up Christmas lights and putting out decorations also come to mind when we think of Christmas. Whatever the memories, they’re accompanied by a certain warm feeling that permeates the senses and makes us realize the significance of the holiday.

One of the most important elements of Christmastime is the gift of giving. Whether it is a small token or a charitable endowment, the gift of giving can change a person’s outlook on life. Giving is one of the oldest Christmas traditions. Since the beginning of this celebrated holiday, it has been customary for those more fortunate to share with those who may be less privileged. With the help of many philanthropic organizations throughout the years, it has become easier for those less fortunate to have a joyous holiday season.

The holiday season is even more enjoyable with the presence of family. Family can be defined in many ways; it’s not restricted to blood relations. Getting together with family is a favorite tradition in rural America. We take time to reflect over the past year, and to share the love we have for one another. Family gatherings also allow an opportunity to relax and have a good time. This is an opportunity that some people do not always have, except when Christmas rolls around.

One of the most relaxing activities of the holiday season can be found right in our own hometown. Christmas trees are a wonderful and time-honored way to celebrate the season. Neighborhoods with lit trees shining through picture windows are a common sight throughout the month of December, and it’s a sign that jolly Saint Nick will soon be arriving.

Decorations like glass orbs, reindeer and the occasional glued, glittered and colored handcrafted ornaments from first grade cover trees from top to bottom, evoking many positive feelings. The tree’s ornaments are not the solitary decorations to be found in or around homes across America. Some of the other decorations may be found hanging from eaves, around bushes, or on the front lawn, all of which are meant for everyone to see and enjoy. Half the fun of these decorations is the effort put in to create these picturesque displays of holiday cheer.

Although these decorations are beautiful, everything that goes up must come down, and this applies to the holiday season. Decorations and ornaments are stored away with care, trees are loaded onto garbage trucks and gifts are used with pleasure – or returned.

Just when the season ends, so does the year, and yet an entirely new year begins with surprises waiting around every corner. That is when we begin to look toward next Christmas and wonder what delights await us. When this happens, we realize that in a few short months, Christmas will be at hand once again, and the memories, decorations and relatives will be back.

That is when another Christmas will welcome us with bright eyes and a warm embrace. This is the true meaning of Christmas, which is something we can all appreciate.

Matt Fleming contributed to this column.

Schools participating in Student Union include Hampden Academy, Brewer High School, John Bapst Memorial High School in Bangor, Old Town High School, Mount Desert Island Regional High School, Stearns High School in Millinocket, Nokomis Regional High School, Hermon High School, and Schenck High School in East Millinocket.