THE HIDDEN SIDE OF CHRISTMAS
By Victoria Genders on December 3, 2017 in Columns
It’s that time of the year again, when the snow plummets down from the sky reminding us of the cold, dark nights that are about to come, and we cover ourselves in itchy scarves and knitted hats. It’s that time of the year when everyone is running around in a frenzy of consumerism, constantly thinking and worrying about what we should give our loved ones on christmas eve. Glistening christmas lights are put up way in advance, on balconies and facades, continuously flickering in the corner of our eyes. Hot chocolate and red unsightly christmas sweaters become a custom, bringing some color and warmth into white dull winter evenings. It’s that time of the year when the thought of Christmas break makes everyone smile, as us students expect a big weight being taken of our shoulders while taking some time off school.
However, not all of us feel as if a weight really has been taken off. Instead, more is being added. The expectations of Christmas, how it should be, bears many of us down and becomes more of a burden than a relief. I, can personally say that I’ve felt this way many times in anticipation of different holidays and traditions. It’s assumed that holidays are made to spend time with your families and loved ones at home, celebrating and socializing. And yes, it certainly is lovely for those who are able to. In the dazzling excitement for christmas, let’s not forget those who in fact aren’t able to. For instance in my case, with family members living separated in different countries, they’re rarely able to see each other. Or those who simply have dysfunctional families, or maybe even not a family at all. Those who have a family, but which happens to be uncaring and absent. In addition, let’s not forget those who have loving and caring families but that simply can’t live up to the expectations and norms associated with Christmas.
In a time of growing xenophobia and uneasiness around the world, it’s easy to forget that we’re all human, capable of doing only so much. We are many, and we should hold each other close. With or without families, present and non present, we should all care for each other and always spare an extra seat at the table on christmas day for those in need. Whether you’re an atheist, muslim, hindu, buddhist, christian or of another belief, keep your heads high and spirits up. And remember, to have a merry christmas.
By Victoria Genders
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