’Tis the Season for a Less Self-Indulgent Holiday

Here we are, approaching the end of another crazy year, with economic ups and downs, COVID-19 variants, supply chain issues, court cases of note, frightening storms and disasters, and a slew of other media-inspired distractions that keep us agitated. They may also keep us from focusing on what’s actually important: our immediate circle of family and friends, the activities in which we engage, the work we do, the causes to which we’re committed, the things we share with those closest to us. 

When you look at the world and its billions of people from a distant satellite perspective, you see an undistinguished mass of humanity. Zooming in closer, you find that those masses have organized themselves into groups of commonality we call nations. These commonalities may be culture, ancestry, race, religion, history, philosophy, or even geography. Closer still, are states, regions, provinces, cities, down to the tiniest of towns that consist of people who know each other personally. The common thread to this is how interdependent we are as a species.

Any object you own, unless made from scratch by your own hand, was made by others, perhaps many others. Perhaps countless others from all over the world. None of us by ourselves could make a pencil, much less a car. We need each other.

A specific faith system is not necessary to acknowledge this truth. One can be absolutely a nihilistic, anti-social, cynic filled with hostility, and it remains true. 

In this holiday season, following two very challenging years that have dramatically impacted all societies, it may soothe the soul a bit to recognize our interdependence on one another and show a sign of appreciation. 

Religions of all kinds have developed rituals of appreciation and blessing, prayers of thanks, and various forms of encouraging personal humility; these ideas have resonated for centuries and should be deeply considered. This time of year, here in the U.S., Christmas traditions abound, along with other faith practices and celebrations. 

I happen to have been raised in a Christian household and continue the traditions of faith, giving, and humility with my own family. You may have grown up with other traditions, different faiths, and distinct celebrations of your own, maybe at other times of the year. We can each acknowledge the thoughts of wisdom contained in all faiths, even those of us who may hold a more agnostic view of theology.

‘Tis the season of gift-giving, and retail sales solicitations are bombarding us, fast and furiously. Much ink has been spilled blasting the over-commercialization of the holidays, but that’s not on my agenda. No, my thoughts are an attempt at humility, of recognizing our limitations as individuals – despite my being a staunch individualist - and appreciating others.

Much of the COVID-19 discourse since early 2020 was about protecting others, social distancing, masking, and various mandates, not exclusively to protect ourselves. Let’s consider that idea more abstractly: We can give gifts to those close to us but giving gifts to people we haven’t yet met is a touch more challenging. But it’s not impossible. 

If we think less self-indulgently, less self-referentially, with less self-absorption, we may find it’s easier than initially thought. Instead of sharing Instagram selfies, your latest adventure, recent purchases, the marvelous culinary delights you’re consuming, what if you simply shared positive wishes for others? Try it.

To all of you, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Season’s Greetings that find you in high spirits, good health, and with an abundance of happiness!