Categories: Ramblings

Yes folks, its that time of year again. The time of year that we celebrate…the spirit of commercialism. Some of you may be saying “But Christmas is about Christ’s birth, goodwill toward men, (insert other generic Christmas phrases here)” But honestly, look around you. Christmas ads begin as early as mid-November, and continue with increasing frequency until Christmas and sometimes after. This barrage of ads comes from big business, desperately trying to gain people’s Christmas dollars and fulfill their dream of a “green Christmas.” Christmas specials are aired non-stop, featuring Santa Claus, the spirit of commercialism himself. Lavish decorations are put up, as people compete with their neighbours to see who has the best. Shoppers attack store shelves and each other in a mad rush, determined to complete their Christmas list, no matter how expensive the gifts are. Yet they never have enough to give to the Salvation Army man. People greedily consume Christmas cake, egg nog and other treats, but don’t spare a moment to give thanks.

And where is Jesus in all of this? He has been replaced by Santa Claus, because there seems to be no room for him in this world where religion is taken out of everything. Due to the increasing commercialization of Christmas, I have been losing a little Christmas spirit each year. Nowadays, I’ve lost almost all of it. Focusing on Christmas’ true meaning keeps me from turning into a complete Scrooge. A Christmas job I was counting on didn’t fall through, and I’ve got so little money that I can hardly afford a decent present for my little sister, much less the entire family. But no matter how commercialized it becomes, Christmas is still Christmas, so have a merry Christmas one and all!