I have always loved Christmas - the celebrations, the family together and the general spirit. When it started to become more about money than cheer though, I knew it had to change. I decided to no longer participate in that whole consumerism thing, no more rushing to the shops to buy something for someone just because it was December 25th. I decided instead to concentrate more on the celebration of Christmas, the spirit of it. If you are wondering why I am writing such an article in early November, you could say I am trying to catch you before you hit the shops!
I'd like to point out first the original meaning of Christmas. I am not talking of the birth of Christ, since no one is really sure exactly when that was (although it is thought sometime in September). I am referring to the original Christmas, or winter solistice, celebrated by the Pagans. This came up for me recently, as I was struggling with the whole concept of Christmas and the example I may be setting for my children by observing a religious holiday when I am not religious. It seems the Pagans celebrate seasonally and the winter solistice was the observation of the days getting longer, therefore the promise of the growth of new crops in the coming year. Trees were brought indoors as a sign of life and a the elements of earth were worshipped.
As I read more about this, I really identified with the basis of this celebration - earth and nature. I cannot think of anything better to celebrate, or to give thanks to than our wonderful earth. So, with this information came the realisation that I was in tune with this all along - Christmas to us has always been a celebration of life, family and gratitude to the earth - and suddenly I have even stronger convictions.
I would like to urge everyone that hates Christmas shopping, the crowds, the money spent, to rethink the whole thing for just a second. Think about what this is really meant to be, about the example you wish to set for your children. I hear so much talk of how much children "want", how they demand more and more every year. I really think that is an unfair deal for kids, since it is we who introduce these trends to begin with. Surely we are better to set an example of family rituals and spirited gift giving than the orgy of consumerism that benefits no one but the shop owners?
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