Merry Christmas

Ah, Christmas! That magical time of year when people willingly invite chaos into their homes in the name of joy and goodwill. It’s a season wrapped in tinsel, glitter, and just a little bit of existential dread—because nothing says "holiday spirit" quite like maxing out your credit cards to buy gifts for people who’ll exchange them for store credit.

Let’s start with the tree, the centerpiece of this annual spectacle. Whether it’s real, fake, or one of those sad aluminum ones from the 1960s, the tree is a source of endless debate. Do you go for the full, bushy fir that drops needles everywhere, ensuring you’ll find pine remnants in June? Or do you pull out last year’s artificial tree, which smells vaguely of attic and despair?

Once the tree is erected—usually with more cursing than anyone cares to admit—it’s time to decorate. Here’s where families split into two camps: those who see it as a sacred tradition and those who see it as a competitive sport. The former aim for sentimental ornaments, like your kid’s misshapen clay star that might double as a weapon. The latter aim to outshine the Vegas Strip, complete with synchronized light shows and a soundtrack that could make your neighbors consider moving.

Then there’s the matter of gifts, the ultimate test of how well you know your loved ones. It’s a high-stakes game of psychological warfare. You’ll say, “I don’t need anything this year,” but deep down, you’re hoping for something extravagant, like that espresso machine you’ve been eyeing. Meanwhile, your aunt will hear “I’m fine” and decide to gift you socks. Again.

Online shopping was supposed to make things easier, but let’s be honest—it’s a trap. You’ll start with good intentions but somehow end up buying a singing pickle ornament at 2 a.m. because Amazon said, “Customers who bought this also bought a sense of humor.”

Christmas dinner is another marvel. It’s the only meal where people feel compelled to roast a bird the size of a toddler while simultaneously making side dishes that no one really likes. (Looking at you, cranberry sauce.) And let’s not forget the desserts! There’s always one relative who insists on making fruitcake, the indestructible foodstuff that will outlive us all. Seriously, archaeologists will find fruitcake in a thousand years and wonder if it was an early form of currency.

Then there is the holiday attire. Ugly Christmas sweaters have gone from being a source of childhood embarrassment to a badge of honor. The gaudier, the better! Bonus points if it lights up or plays music. But let’s not overlook the festive pajamas trend, which ensures everyone looks equally ridiculous for the annual family photo that will inevitably resurface on Facebook as a "Memory" ten years from now.

For all its quirks and chaos, Christmas does have a magical way of bringing people together. Yes, even those relatives who debate politics at the dinner table or give you unsolicited advice about your career. Because at the end of the day, Christmas isn’t about the perfect tree, the best gift, or even the fluffiest mashed potatoes. It’s about love, laughter, and the shared understanding that someone will have to unclog the sink after dinner. So, as you wade through the wrapping paper carnage and wonder why you bought so much eggnog, remember: Christmas is a beautiful, messy, glitter-covered reminder that imperfection is part of the magic.

And finally, and most importantly for the world's 2.6 billion Christians, we recognize the birth of the savior of the world, Jesus Christ, whose message remains a standard that few humans really meet. That includes me. One thing is certain, if we all tried to live by his teachings of peace, forgiveness and love of our fellow man, the world would be a much better place. This is not to denigrate any other religious or spiritual tradition. Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and tribal religions, who all share traditions of selflessness, good works and worship of the creator. For all of us, this season provides the opportunity to show gratitude for our blessings and resolve to live a more harmonious life. There it is!

Merry Christmas everyone.