The Broke-Ass Christmas Spirit
With less than a week before Christmas, I’m sitting at home and watching the animated version of Dr. Suess’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas”. If you know the story then you’re well aware that the Grinch goes on to steal all of the gifts from the residents of Whoville. Expecting sadness, the Grinch is shocked to find that the Whos were joyfully singing and didn’t care about the gifts at all. The narrator goes on to mention the Grinch’s epiphany: “Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. Maybe Christmas, he thought…doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps… means a little bit more! ” Who would have knew that the Whos from Whoville embodied the broke-ass spirit all along?
It’s difficult not to fall victim to a holiday that has been swallowed by consumerism, especially for the kids. As children we never made it easy on our parents and now as adults it’s hard not to get something special for the little ones. Ask Ralphie from “A Christmas Story” how much it meant to get that Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. That’s where movies and stories like “A Christmas Carol” come into play, teaching the new generation about generosity and compassion for their fellow man.
Stuart’s message has been “what makes life interesting is not the things you own, but the shit you do.” Sure, getting presents on Christmas is great but those material objects only last for so long. We should learn something from the Whos, we should cherish the people around us and the memories conceived through the moments spent together.
When Christmas morning comes and you’re ready to open your presents, take a moment to hug your loved ones and tell them how much you appreciate them. That iPad you’re giving/receiving might have cost a paycheck’s worth but that unconditional love is priceless. Merry Christmas everyone!!!
Photo Credit: zazzle.com
