It’s that time of year again. Instead of running around hating on drivers and imbecilic customer service representatives, I am busing working and reading! I barely know it is Christmas except for the masses that push through the turn style looking for a beginner guitar or a special deal on drumsticks. My meager paycheck does little to alleviate my urge to give. I debate the value of running up credit in order to bless my family and friends.
Besides monetary concerns, I love giving gifts. I like to give things that are both practical and slightly whimsical—the things that might not be given, but inspire creativity and risk-taking.
As I ponder the meaning of Christmas and determine how I can share that with a none-existent budget, I am disturbed by the messages of Christmas that permeate our culture. If I was a visiting foreigner, I might listen to the lyrics of a few songs to help me get accustomed to this new country.Perhaps one of the following:
How’d you like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island?
**Sounds kinda nice.
Bring me some figgy pudding, and bring it right here
**Selfish aren't we?
Backdoor Santa. “I’m better than Santa cuz I come more than once a year”
**Enough said.
Last Christmas I gave you my heart, the very next day you gave it away.
**Get over it.
God came down to the world and said Oi, Oi, Oi, Oi. **Thanks, Gwen.
I’m sorry, but I’d rather not believe that Christmas is about getting laid, revenge on an ex, and acquiring the most extravagant things. I also don’t think it is about a sweet, baby in a manger that doesn’t cry.
Sure, in Christian tradition Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ--the birth of a Messiah, a king, and a savior for the world. Images of innocence are nostalgic but the beauty of Christmas day comes with the recognition of the gift of life. We bless one another with presents because the Divine has blessed us. You may not have much to give, but it’s easy to smile at someone. It takes seconds to say hello, open a door, give an apple to the homeless veteran on the corner of 19th and Sprague, or jump in a puddle with an eight year old.
Instead of begrudgingly coughing up hard earned cash, flipping off a rude shopper, or grumbling about materialistic consumerism and how Christmas perpetuates capitalist greed, try to think about the good things in your life. Thank God for life and breath, and the chance to enjoy a creation or two. Give out of your abundance. Give out of your need. Love on people.
Merry Christmas and God bless us, everyone!
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