Like many of you, I grew up wondering why my family didn’t have a Christmas tree. I understood that we celebrated Hanukkah, but I still wanted to fit in with a lot of my friends. Santa never came to my house, and honestly, I’m happy about it.

One day, my dad took me to the mall to buy something. When we walked in, there was “Santa” sitting in a big chair, asking kids what they wanted for Christmas. My dad and I got in line because I wanted a candy cane! When it was my turn, he asked, “What do you want for Christmas?” I just stared at him. I wasn’t sure if I should tell him I celebrated Hanukkah, make something up, or say nothing at all. Being a shy kid, I went with the last option. I’ve always wondered if those mall Santas could tell who didn’t celebrate Christmas—maybe because we didn’t ask for a photo, or, like half the world during December, no Santa hat was on my head.

I know I’m not the only one who felt a little jealous at some point. I wanted a big Christmas tree in my house. I wanted to join in on all the festivities. I remember being in first grade when another kid in my class bragged about how many gifts Santa brought him. I was so upset that I didn’t get that many presents!

Clearly, I got over it and now understand that it shouldn’t always be about the presents you receive, but about the meaning of both holidays and the gifts you give. My parents never got mad when I said these things. Instead, we started a new tradition. Our neighbors celebrated Christmas while we celebrated Hanukkah. We went to their house to help decorate their tree, and one night of Hanukkah, they would come over and help light the menorah.

Now and throughout my whole life, we never ignored the Christmas celebrations. We loved watching the repetitive Hallmark movies and eating candy canes. If a Christmas song started playing on the radio, we didn’t always turn it off. That’s probably the one thing I don’t love about Hanukkah… there aren’t many fun songs that come on the radio! (If you know Adam Sandler, tell him to get on it.)

Now, getting to the heart of it: I’m truly glad Santa never came to my house. I love Hanukkah and everything it represents. I’m proud of my Jewish identity and all the traditions that come with it. Instead of matching Christmas pajamas, my family wears Hanukkah pajamas. We light the menorah each night and recite the blessings together. Hanukkah is such a meaningful holiday; it commemorates the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days and nights in the Second Temple in Jerusalem.

I can appreciate the joy and spirit of Christmas, but I’m forever grateful to celebrate Hanukkah and all Jewish holidays. My message to you is this: don’t be jealous of Christmas. Appreciate it, learn about it, and remember how amazing Hanukkah is. Be proud of your Jewish identity and everything that comes with it!