“Hurry!” The older ones coach the younger ones who would rather play with the wrappings on Christmas morning. “See what I got for you.”
Right then any meaningful Christmas mood heads for a wreck.
“Held ransom by consumerism” might be the news headline. Fathers wonder how much of a beating the credit card can take this year. Mothers don’t want to disappoint the little ones. Grandparents can hardly wait to indulge themselves in gift-giving.
Stocked shelves, extra gift catalogues, decorations and music make us vulnerable. After all, kids don’t stay young for long. This is the giving season, but what is it that we give?
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As government makes necessary cuts to spending, what can be reduced or restructured in the budgets for agriculture?
The book Unplug the Christmas Machine asks what people really want for Christmas. The four things they list are: a realistic and loving time with families; realistic expectations about gifts; an evenly paced holiday season; and strong family traditions.
The glitter can wear off the toys before the turkey is carved but the spiritual gifts can last a lifetime.
Might this be the year to reconsider? Can we say no when those recitals and parties pile up on each other? Can we share talk about how far the budget might stretch, and select what is reasonable and special?
Can we find projects we could plan together over the holiday season and into the New Year?
Discover the beauty that accompanies simplicity and the depth of meaning that goes with building strong, caring relationships.
