I often rail against the fixtures marketing campaigns have put in place--campaigns that direct our money, energy, time, and mindsets in the direction of corporate wealth, and campaigns that often negate the most essential human needs and opportunities that truly empower life, yet I have embraced the whole notion of Santa. Santa is that magical character that leaves gifts for children all over the world on Christmas Eve. Families have personalized Santa in multiple ways, and honestly I love the idea of this man of good will looking out for children.
Yet, I recognize the limitations with Santa as he doesn't represent all religions, yet many in the United States, no matter what their religion or culture are, have embraced Santa's visit. I think people should do what they want with this Santa fantasy--it's a personal decision.
For me, I embrace the Santa theme of gift giving and light during this dark winter time, and today I'm thinking about my Santa list--the list of actions I can get involved in to spread the spirit of the season.
What's on my list?
Gift creation
I bought a few items, and now I'll create a few more by way of coking and sewing.
Holiday cards
We'll write and send a few cards.
Time with loved ones
As I think about pandemic sacrifices, the greatest sacrifice for me has been that in-person time with many that I love. We've kept our pod small for safety and we do miss seeing many that we haven't seen for months.
Special celebrations
I want our small pod celebration to be special. It has been difficult to plan since the pandemic creates regular changes. For now though, I think our celebration will include the following events.
Christmas Eve: A fancy family dinner at our house or my parents' house followed by gift exchanges
Christmas Day: Breaksfast foods, Family ZOOM, family hike, Christmas dinner, movies and games
That's the Santa list for this pandemic Christmas--much simpler than Santa lists in the past, but not less loving. Onward.