Finding yourself struggling to find meaning in Christmas this year? You are not alone! The economy has made it very difficult for many people to enjoy Christmas this year. Even in a good year, Christmas can be depressing for many. Part of the reason behind this rise in instances of depression among the general population certainly comes from the season (seasonal effective disorder). However, I believe a good deal of the depression can also come from having a wrong perspective on the season.
The Scottish people may have something to teach us this season. From almost the beginning of the Protestant Reformation until into the the middle of the 20th Century, Christmas was a banned celebration in Scotland. Christmas did not become a national holiday until 1958. It is not that the Scots are anti-Christian! Rather, the event of the birth of Christ was taken as a time for reflection on the beginning of the Christian year. There was not a lot of "hoopla" involved.
In more modern times, the Scottish have embraced Christmas trees, a turkey dinner on Christmas Eve, yule logs, etc. However, the celebration is simple. Even the food stays simple.
AND THIS IS THE MESSAGE!!!! Simple is the way to go!
In my own family, we often have 4 or 5 potential "Christmases" to attend. Whew! That is exhausting! That is why we have simplified the Christmas Eve/Christmas Day we spend at home. Little flair, some nice food, lots of time to spend together visiting.
slainte,
Ray Province
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