The holidays are a time when people draw close to their loved ones and celebrate the season. The Sept. 11 tragedy has caused many to reevaluate the deeper meaning of the holiday season. Here, Northwestern students, faculty, and religious figures reflect on the spirit of the season. Some have focused on their faith, some on their loved ones, and some on “family traditions” that make the holidays enjoyable.

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The ‘Holiday Spirit’ always reminds me of the goodness in the world. Sure the decorations, songs, and TV specials may be cheesy, but especially in light of Sept. 11, the levity, love, kindness, and good cheer that the season brings out in people is something I can’t wait to ring in.

Ultimately, the “spirit” symbolizes the one time of the year where most individuals are more concerned about giving than receiving and are willing to drop everything else at a moment’s notice to see and spend time with family, friends, and loved ones. So, on Dasher and Dancer and the fat man in the red suit! Come remind us all once again what good little boys and girls we can be.

Northwestern University Marching Band

spirit leader

‘The Holiday Spirit’ to me means watching my Grandmother get a little tipsy from the rum that I slip into her glass of egg nog.

Associated Student Government president

This year the holidays come to us in the midst of months of national, institutional, and personal mourning. As such they provide us a needed opportunity to draw even closer to all sources of peace and love: such as faith, family and friendship. To give thanks for blessings found in the midst of every experience. We are challenged in a special way this year to extend memory back beyond the barricades of tragedy and grief to the full graciousness of life. This year also, the fasting of the Muslim Month of Ramadan and of the Catholic Ember Days in preparation for Thanksgiving, coincide to join us together in solidarity with those who suffer. This fasting before feasting reminds us that this is a celebration not so much of excess, as of survival beyond all odds, through sharing of common gifts. And the Season of Advent and the Festival Hanukkah coincide to join us in always looking for the growing miracle of light.

director of the Sheil Catholic Center

This year, more than ever, holiday spirit means valuing American freedom, promoting justice and tolerance at home and abroad, and honoring those whose service to the nation makes these things possible.

Weinberg dean