I am a believer in sending Christmas cards. I realize it's a lot of work, hassle and time but I feel it is a necessary part of celebrating Christmas. To me, it's not about tradition. It's about need.
The meaning of the season is to show the people in our lives how much we love and appreciate them. What an easier, and inexpensive, way to show someone? A nice card, a simple sentiment and your signature. It takes a minute, it cost less than a dollar. (if I had any sort of mathematical ability I would figure out actually cost...work with me here) How much more simple can it be?
And most importantly, it means the world to people.
Cynics grouse that it's all commercial. It's a "Hallmark holiday". Or my personal favorite "Why is this season any different than the others? I can tell my family and friends that I love them any time." Yeah, BUT do you? Probably not.
I see sending Christmas cards as a confirmation of love and friendship. As a opportunity to tell someone that I appreciate and care for them, when normally the subject would never arise.
It's an occasion to extend an olive branch, to apologize, to simply say "I'm thinking of you" even if you haven't spoken in weeks, months, years. It's a chance to say "Thank You" to friends, co-workers, the mailman.
It is a way to simply say "I See You."
Awhile ago I sent a Christmas card on impulse, right before the holiday. I expected no response, that wasn't the point. I received a quiet token of affection in response, without a single word being exchanged. It meant the world to me and gives me pause whenever I think of it.
I would have never had that moment if I hadn't made the effort.
All of this from a simple greeting card.
Merry Christmas.
4 comments:
Totally agree with you. DH hates doing the Christmas card, but I finally convinced him today that we needed to get it done. But, I like giving cards in general. I think I still feel special when I get something in the mail.
Totally agree. I love receiving them, and I love sending them. I think of it as a way to touch base with the people on my "Christmas cards friends" list---like saying, "I know we don't talk all the time, but I consider you In My Life and hope I'm In Yours."
I meant to include the simple fun and joy at receiving Christmas cards...I call it Happy Mail!
It's like the Pay It Forward contests!
Anyone who wants to email their addy, I'll totally send you a Christmas card!!! (:-D
Mexicans don't do cards. I mean they exist there, but we just don't send any to each other. I don't even know who actually buys them anymore.
Here in London, however, they are a huge, HUGE thing. It's been part of the culture shock for us. But what you say in your post makes total sense. Sending them does sound like fun!
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