'Sad Jesus'
Paint-by-Number Art
Artist Unknown
I leave for my morning commute in the dark these days — because of the ever depressing Daylight Savings Time — with an ever growing number of people leaving The Rock for the mainland to do their holiday shopping. On the last ferry of the day (which at 3:15 PM, is also in the dark), the same people are back aboard — arms and carts overflowing with the days booty.
"Mushi, have you started your shopping yet?" someone will often ask.
I smile, carrying the same bag — holding my laptop, camera, a book, notepads, shuffle, thermos, and any other things I think I might need during the day — and answer, "We really don't celebrate the holidays with all the gifts and presents."
There is often not much to say after that. Some just smile awkwardly and walk a little faster ahead. Some understand and will say that they too, wish that they didn't have to do so much — but the kids wouldn't understand. One parent told me that every Christmas – regardless of how much was under the tree on the final day — after the final present will have been opened, his child will stand up and say, "This was the worst Christmas ever."
I think the holidays were meant for something else. Give it a shot.
•••
De La Soul: Me Myself And I
(Buy: De La Soul: 3 Feet High and Rising)
Lene Lovich: Lucky Number
(Buy: Lene Lovich: The Best of Lene Lovich)
Al Green: Love and Happiness
(Buy: Al Green's Greatest Hits)
