I have always loved Christmas. Without a doubt, it is my favourite time of year. But after a month of beating family and friends into submission of at least a little festive cheer, it would seem that I am in the minority. And the more I think about it, the more I understand.
For Christians, it's pretty obvious what Christmas is all about, so why is it so important for us non-religious folk?
For the cynics and the business men and women, the festive period is a time to take advantage of good will and generosity, to encourage shoppers to dig deep and buy things that are essential to anyone's Christmas. Actually, it may come as some surprise that no, I do not need yet another dressing gown or miniature figurine of a safari animal. This capitalist, materialistic aspect to December makes it easy to understand why most despair as the festive adverts flood our screens, screaming at you to buy the latest fad or your son or daughter will be the laughing stock of the playground.
For others, it's kindness and thoughtful acts that define the festive period. A friend of mine commutes into Waterloo and buys an espresso from a coffee stall near the exit. One day during the run up to Christmas, a woman in front of him bought two hot chocolates, walked down the steps and gave one of them to a homeless person outside the station, wished him a 'merry Christmas', and went on her way.
(Now for the soppy bit. If the previous day's drinking has left you feeling queezy, I would be cautious about reading on..) For me, Christmas is about much more than presents and the birth of a religious icon. It gives us a chance to remember who and what is important in life. For some, getting the latest game for the Xbox is important, but for me, it's being surrounded by family and friends, eating cracking food, and watching heartwarming films by the fire (find your nearest puke points now). Merry Christmas to all!
