Ok, so today is the day. The day that most you rushed, cussed, and fought for - Christmas. Well I hope spending from 1/24 - to 1/12 of your annual salary for ONE day of "joy" was worth it.
Though I don't believe in "Christmas", my challenges to you next year are this:
1. Instead of buying a real OR plastic tree, plant 5 new ones.
2. Instead of buying "gifts" of want, buy others gifts of need.
3. Instead of sending me cake, cookies and candy, save that money and send it to your closest urban mission house/soup kitchen. They need food more than I need the sweets...
4. This incarnation is short, so take more than just one day to show others your appreciate them and do so throughout the year!
Happy holidays...
@ Dimitri- Thanks for your post
ReplyDeleteI'm observing how divisive Christmas can be...People do truly show their ugly side around the holidays. I think the meaning of "giving" has been misconstrued and confused for "gifting". The money and energy we spend on buying happiness is just ridiculous! I don't want to hear another person mouth the words receipt, refund, or regift. I agree that we need to rethink our practices to make sure they are environmentally, economically, and emotionally purposeful. Your suggestions are wonderful ways get back to the true meaning of GIVING...
Unfortunately, most people focus on material 'wants' AND themselves instead of looking at the 'needs' of others. Even simple appreciation for those closest to self is often overlooked when selfish wants get in the way. Outlandish gifts to family members (especially children) on 'this one day' does little to 'teach' the gift of giving. We're simply perpetuating the cycle of want and greed.
ReplyDeleteIt's critical that we teach 'children' (and adults) no matter what their position in life -- age, economic worth or job /title-- we all have something to give. Most are too quick to look to others to be philanthropic and profess to do better tomorrow......for most tomorrow never comes!