The current HOFN.com poll has an interesting question. Which do you most enjoy about the holiday season: Church, food, gifts, music, or parties?  Currently, parties lead the way with more than 50 percent of the vote.

When I asked a family member if he was surprised with the vote, he said no – and that he, too, voted for parties. However, he also stated that he would have preferred voting for “spirit” if it had been listed. However, doesn’t “spirit” actually encompass church, food, gifts, music and parties? Therein is the question…which ingredient of “spirit” of the holiday season matters most to each?

It’s sad, but not surprising, that church brings up the rear of the poll. For me, religion and beliefs are within the heart – not necessarily in a church. Maybe it has become the same for many, especially Generation X.

What pleases me most, however, is that ‘gifts’ is second to last – and, I hope, will finish dead last. The holidays have always been commercialized, but this has become overwhelming in recent years – and puts much too much pressure on families with a limited budget.

So, in retrospect, “parties” is the obvious choice for the most enjoyable aspect of the holidays. Gatherings bring together friends and create a festive mood….where cheer, food, music, laughter, and memories abound.

Isn’t that the true “spirit” of the holidays…celebrating life and love.

Happy Holidays!