The pubs are livelier, the shops packed, carparks become a test of our patience and fortitude as we navigate our way to find a spot, all the while trying our best to keep the “effing and blinding” to a minimum. Families reunite with scenes from the airport that imbue so many with feelings of warmth and happiness.
The food, the excess, the turkey, the ham, the gravy, the sprouts, the wrapping paper, the gifts, the joy of giving, and the joy of getting. The boxes of sweets and the USA Assorted Biscuits, and about the only time of year when we, for the most part, pretend that we really enjoy mulled wine.
The Christmas movies; Home Alone, A Miracle on 34th Street, Die Hard (Yes, it is a Christmas movie) and so many other favorites from over the years. Then there are the kids, the Santa visits, and the excitement of leaving out the carrot for Rudolph and the team. Christmas is many things to many people and it is hard not to get caught up in it all.
We do get the reminders, of course, that it won’t be easy for everybody. And, no, this isn’t going to turn into something negative but we did mention giving and getting earlier in this piece. It doesn’t always have to be something tangible. Most of us don’t really “need” anything. It’s still nice to get something but one of the best gifts we have to give is our time. Whether it’s a quick chat with the neighbours, checking in with somebody who may isolated or lonely, or even a 5-minute phone call.
As the song goes, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year” and it might be one of happiness. Remember though, happiness can be like a snowball, the more it gathers, the bigger it can become. So maybe, consider sharing a little of your excess happiness with those who might need it.
We come from a tradition of lighting the candle on Christmas Eve and placing it in our window to indicate that there is space there for somebody in need. It signifies hope and guidance, gives a welcome, and conveys hospitality and openness to the community, be they a friend or a stranger. It serves as a beacon to a warm and inviting space. Maybe in all the seasonal kerfuffle, we might remember to put a candle in the window this year.
Nollaig Shona duitse, John.
