As I write this, the first snowfall of the season has covered the valley like a coat of fresh paint, hiding the flaws, cracks, and stains, and making a good impression.
Yes, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. But oh, how I dislike Christmas!
Although the snow is beautiful, I despise the cold! A whole month of Christmas music could drive me crazy, and if I have to watch It’s a Wonderful Life for the 25th time, I may go over the edge. But most of all, I hate the obligatory shopping! A lot of people feel this way.
It is so hard to shop for adults. After all, what do you buy for people who have everything?
And then there are the kids, with their large, unrealistic lists, when most of the time they should get coal in their Christmas stockings.
Right now I really can sympathize with the Grinch.
But you probably didn’t expect a co-publisher of Utah Stories to tell you about her contempt for one of the most profitable holidays of the year.
Actually, what I dislike most is the materialistic aspect of this holiday — this giant annual money-sucking festival. The glut of rampant consumerism is appalling at a time in history when we should be conserving resources and recycling to protect our planet. Most of what the Amazon, FedEx and UPS trucks are hauling to our doorsteps will inevitably end up in a landfill. Meanwhile, war is raging in other parts of the world, and some of our fellow human beings don’t have enough food.
However, I do like Christmas as a reason for giving — a season of giving thoughtful presents and celebrating with family and friends by breaking bread together. Helping fellow humans in need. Keeping our children accountable and not spoiling them with bags full of presents they actually don’t deserve.
During December Utah Stories will highlight some of our local shops where you can buy gifts for those you love, while supporting the local economy.
Amanda Rock talks about local bakers with their special pastries that will make this Christmas season even cozier. Amiee Maxwell breaks down the frustrating construction in Sugar House. Rachel Fixsen shows travelers what to expect by visiting Moab in winter. Richard Markosian examines the lack of personal accountability in our public schools, and Francia Benson talks to Utahns with ties to Israel and Palestine and gives them a voice to share their experiences.
We hope you make the most of this holiday season, and that you can create joy and merriment with family and friends.
Merry Christmas and happy reading!
Feature image illustration by Chris Bodily.
