Remember What's Important

I think I've become a holiday humbug. Watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Christmas in Rockefeller Center this year, rather than seeing balloons, decorations, and smiling performers, all I saw was commercialism, greed, and capitalism at its worst. Every float advertised a business or company, from Disney to Rao's spaghetti sauce. Singers with new albums were performing to advertise themselves. Instead of enjoying the entertainment, I felt my mood increasingly turn Grinch-like.

My husband told me those negative traits of the parade and show were always there, but we just never noticed them as kids. And as a kid growing up in the Hudson River Valley, taking a trip into New York City at Christmastime always felt magical and exciting--the huge tree lit up in Midtown Manhattan, the holiday window displays at Saks and other stores on 5th Avenue, the Christmas show with the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. 

Now, however, in addition to TV commercials, we're bombarded with store advertising through social media and practically every click we make on the internet. I understand this is the biggest time of year for stores across the board, but come on. Tone down the "buy, buy, buy" for things we don't want or even need. Yes, I am among those who think it's ironic that just one day after Thanksgiving, a holiday celebrating gratitude for what you have, so many rush out to get even more stuff.

So, what is the purpose of this post beside ranting and humbugging? I guess I'd just like everyone to remember what's really important about the holidays (no matter which ones you observe)--the people in our lives. Whether they're family by blood or family by choice, co-workers or people who provide us with services. Spend time with them, tell them what they mean to you, appreciate them. Even a smile or a hello to someone you don't know is a precious gift these days when manners and courtesy seem to have gone the way of the dinosaurs.

Wishing you and yours kindness and the gift of being together from the perch.

Image Source: Pixabay