12/24/09
This time of year, it's popular -- and, in my opinion, pointless -- to complain that people are only being nice to one another because it's Christmas time. You hear, "I'll be glad when Christmas is over so people can act like themselves again.” And, "Why do people have to wait 'til Christmas to be nice to each other? It won't last."
So what if we suspend reality for a few days or weeks around Christmas? The good feelings that are exchanged among co-workers; the easing up of hostilities among neighbors; the rediscovered warmth among family members; the smiles (and eye contact!) between strangers; the attention we give each other; the surprises -- offered and received -- that tickle us; the uninterrupted laughing; the staying up late; the airport runs to pick up those coming home; the get-togethers with best pals; all this confirms our humanity and our human kindness. It makes our hearts stronger and our spirits more like Christ's.
All this gives us the fuel and assurance to move on through our days of haste and drudge and deadlines; and we excitedly look toward the same time next year when we can open ourselves up again and let our guard down, knowing we won't be the only ones. Day-to-day life is unpredictable. So, yes, we need a little -- a whole lot of -- Christmas!
1 comment:
Ain't it the truth, Avis?
Personally, I'm not offended by the abbreviated acts of humanity.
While it does seem a shame that it is prompted by the Advent season and all that goes with it, perhaps there's a guidance behind it disguised with a little Divinity, that opens my heart and mind to receive it all the more.
Think of it, the season occurs at the commencement of a 12 month list of 'gotta dos, gotta bes and gotta gets' and culminated by the celebration of a extraordinary birth that occurred long before we knew what a CRT was.
Yet we reside and exist through it, as best we can, even if secretly we wish we didn't have to (for one reason or another), only to be glad to see the season and period of Academy Award acting return 12 months later.
So, in spite of the various degrees of objections and Scrooged attitudes of my fellow (wo)men, I join you in believing that now, more than ever, we do need a little Christmas, right this very minute - - at least enough to hold us until next year this time.
Regards,
D
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