December

December, the twelfth and final month of the Gregorian calendar, is a time of hope, joy, and endless shopping. It is the month when the world transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland, and when people debate endlessly about whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie (it is).

The name December comes from the Latin word decem, meaning “ten,” which is ironic because it is the twelfth month of the year. This is just one of the many quirks of the Gregorian calendar, which is named after Pope Gregory XIII, who apparently couldn’t count.

December is the month when people frantically rush to decorate their homes with gaudy tinsel and ugly sweaters. It is also the month when office parties abound, and when you’re expected to buy gifts for people you don’t really like.

But despite all the stress and chaos, December is also a time of great cheer. It’s the month when people show their generosity by donating to charity, and when families come together to sing carols and gorge on holiday treats.

Of course, not everyone is excited about December. The Grinch famously hated the holiday season, and he wasn’t alone. Some people despise the saccharine music, the endless lines at the mall, and the sickly sweet scent of eggnog.

But love it or hate it, December is here to stay. So whether you’re sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire or cursing the crowds at the mall, remember that this is the most wonderful time of the year. And if all else fails, you can always curl up with a nice bottle of wine and binge-watch Elf for the hundredth time.