By Phuong Nguyen
The aroma of cookies baking, “Jingle Bells” by Dean Martin playing in the background, and Christmas lights wrapped around our windows twinkling. This is my idea of a perfect winter night -- combined with hot chocolate for friends and family. I truly enjoy this time of the year for the festive and joy vibes beaming from everyone.
The best part of the season for me is to give back to those you love and to the community you live in. Just look around and find something meaningful: volunteer at a food bank/ homeless shelter/ soup kitchen, donate a new toy to “Toys for Tots” for children who are less fortunate, or drop some coins in the Salvation Army bucket outside your grocery store.
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As a high school senior, this is the last holiday season with my friends before we head into our future not knowing where our lives will take us. December is the month to cap off the end of the year and to reflect on the memories we have made, sad or happy, but ones that we will bring with us into 2014.
Parties will be an important part of this month for many teens (and adults). Many teens find holiday celebrations provide the opportunity and access to experiment and use alcohol and other drugs. College-age siblings and friends return home and are often a primary source for supplying those underage. And sadly, too many parents don’t realize that teens often get their alcohol from home (with permission or not).
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I encourage teens to make choices that are safe and healthy. There are other ways to have a party without alcohol (and you will remember the next morning without a hangover too). One idea is to host an ugly Christmas sweater party and have it potluck style so everyone brings a favorite dish. This is a perfect way to celebrate and truly enjoy each other’s company. One of my favorite dishes to make is a good chicken and dumplings. It might not be the prettiest dish out there but truly one of the most comforting foods to eat.
The holidays are a time to reconnect as a family, and a great time for parents to talk with their kids so they understand the risks of underage drinking and drug use and drinking and driving. Open and honest conversations are important at all ages. The Unified Prevention Coalition of Fairfax County has a great tip sheet for parents “Tis the Season To Talk With Your Teen About Drinking And Drugs.”
The best type of fun is one where you are sober. Here’s to hot chocolate! Celebrate this time of year with your family and friends, and enjoy their company and time. Here’s wishing everyone Happy Holidays with fun celebrations drug- and alcohol-free!
Phuong Nguyen is a senior at Westfield High School and is a member of the Youth Council of the Unified Prevention Coalition of Fairfax County.
The Unified Prevention Coalition of Fairfax County is a nonprofit organization with more than 60 community partners working together to keep youth and young adults safe and drug-free. Visit www.unifiedpreventioncoalition.org and www.facebook.com/unifiedpreventioncoalition. Follow the group on Twitter at www.twitter.com/keepyouthsafe.