Here’s hoping good holiday feelings last

This is traditionally the time of year when we count our blessings and share some of what we have with those less fortunate. It is a special time of year and it would be wonderful if all those kind words an actions were continued throughout the year and became a way of life.

If I were talking to friends and acquaintances, I’m virtually certain all would agree it is a nice idea, but they would also likely believe it is unrealistic. My question is, why? This year with all the controversy about our elected officials the need for caring for others, even those who don’t look like us or don’t share our viewpoints, is even more obvious.

We are the people. The big box stores and others who cash in on the holiday season pay lip service to the spirit of the season. The entertainment industry also sees the holidays as a cash cow. Money and profit seem to take over and we, the consumers, pick up the tab.

For many the season is remembered by the monthly payments that extend long after the holiday season is over. Very few employers close and give their employees a day off to celebrate with their loved ones. The worst part of the hectic holiday season is we fully participate in the madness in spite of what most of us say we believe is the real meaning of the season. Without our participation there would be no incentive to have “Black Fridays,” “Super Saturdays” and all the other gimmicks that have shoppers camping out all night in the cold and then come to the brink of killing each other over a bargain. We effectively shoot ourselves in the foot.

The recent political theater has brought out the worst in many people and now the chorus is kiss and make up, but I seriously doubt if we will see perfect harmony in Washington, D.C., and the state houses across the nation. Hopefully the hostility will be tamped down a bit, but I’m not overly optimistic. Between shopping, decorating, entertaining, worrying about how we will pay the bills and the rest of the holiday chaos, most of us only get a glimpse of what the holidays are really about and savor that brief moment of happiness and joy. Since we, collectively, by not participating in the annual mayhem can change what has become the norm. If we like that warm and fuzzy feeling that touches our hearts why don’t we work harder to keep it going throughout the year ? As the saying goes, “if it is to be, it is up to me.”

The idea is probably a fairy tale, but it may be something to think about. We definitely can control our piece of the annual cultural disaster which has become our holiday custom. Perhaps groups and organizations can promote the concept so the idea could get some traction. It is nice to experience that brief moment of peace on earth as a reality. Could it really grow, expand and linger for months? Something to consider if we really want the world to be a better place to live. Or is it a pipe dream we wish will come true but are not willing to do what is necessary to make it happen?

I wish everyone a very happy and blessed holiday season that will last 12 months and ultimately become our way of life. David A. Ryan, Hollywood