Christmas Revolution

NineTwelve

Welp... It's nearly Thanksgiving, and that brings up Black Friday and shopping and... Christmas.

I hate crowds, short dark days, shopping, muzak, plastic decorations, tchotkes, trash, clutter, eating too much candy and drinking too much alcohol. I dislike so many things about this holiday. Which is not a holy day for me, since I don't have a religion.

I was talking to a friend about how as a single woman with no children, it always feels like I'm on the outside of this thing I don't understand, but that looks (and feels) like total misery. I told my friend I just wanted to get away from it all, but then it occurred to me: I don't have to leave. I can stop participating.

This year I declare as the year I do not buy presents, watch Santa movies, send cards, put up a tree, or wish people a Merry Christmas (unless they do it first - I don't want to be rude.)

I was feeling sad, but now I feel wonderful.

Merry Whatever, y'all.

And a Happy New Year.

wrenn

Two thumbs up.

magiclight

Ninetwelve: I can so relate to all of the items on your list. I used to enjoy the holidays until I realized I was the one doing all the work so I quit. I'm single so only do what I want and that is to lighten my dark house with lots of light for the long nights, found a very few silver decorations for winter solstice that I put on my table in the tv room that is cozy in winter and is calming without being religious. I do enjoy good wine in the evening, a drive around my neighborhood to enjoy other peoples decorations, and roaming the stores to view the decorations when it is not busy. I have started to decline holiday parties and last year spent Christmas day alone even though I had invitations to join others. I binge watch my favorite shows, or go to the movies along side others that do not celebrate Christmas. Maybe those of like minds could revolt and meet here to celebrate Winter Solstice Dec. 21st. in this virtual space.

NineTwelve

magiclight, your list sounds so peaceful and lovely. Winter Solstice is one of my most hopeful days of the year (seasonal affective disorder usually hits me around this time.)

I plan to spend at least some of my days off hiking, singing, dancing, and reaching out to people I don't always have time for.

The money I save, I intend to donate to causes I have always wanted to support, with more than just words.