Many people are talking about canceling Christmas. I understand what they mean. If you don't have money and all your are used to doing with this holiday is shopping and giving purchased gifts, then it seems pointless and stressful.
But it isn't about that. Even if you consider yourself non-religious, part of the new movement of Kindness, etc, then the symbolism of the great gift is one to observe. The teachings of Christ center around love and acceptance and are beautiful and worthy of understanding.
It is a time of warmth and companionship, the mark of Winter beginning signals the end of the slow descent into dark and decay that Autumn can be. The days slowly begin to gain sunlight hours again, the decay becomes a restful rejuvenation, gearing up toward the bursting forth of life that we call Spring. I enjoy Winter immensely. It is a fabulous season and also worthy of celebrating.
New Year is one of my most favorite days. I used to dread the coming of the new year, starting over, just when I'd gotten used to how things were. But several years ago there was a very difficult year...beyond difficult. And suddenly, the symbolism of leaving the old year behind and starting fresh and new was very clear. Since then, it's anticipated. :) That isn't to say that the years have all been bad and need gotten rid of, not in the least.
So, this coming season of warmth in the winter, gathering as friends when darkness closes in early, gearing down toward a more restful moment before the windup to spring begins, shedding the old and bidding it farewell, welcoming all things new, even if it's only your view and attitude of the people and circumstances in your life...those that we wouldn't choose to lose we can appreciate anew.
We sing the winter songs, we decorate the tree, we put up lots of twinkle lights...or rather, trade out the ones that have been burning out from never being put away...because we don't. We also never take our tree down.
So, Welcome the season of fellowship and kindness. Don't worry about shopping. Give the gift of yourself, always when you can. Bake cookies for friends, or cinnamon rolls, or rake leaves, or knit a hat, or just give a hug...
Keep the beauty of this season.
Merry Christmas (To all of the world)
Jean Beauvoir
(just coz I like it)
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