During this grim holiday, lights lifting weary spirits
Christmas Day is almost upon us, but the spirit of Christmas is always among us if we choose to see it.
In that vein, a big thank you to everyone in the San Antonio community who has made an extra effort to decorate their yards this holiday season so we can all enjoy them from afar.
While our observations are hardly scientific, and highly anecdotal, pandemic-weary San Antonians appear to have stepped up their holiday decor game this year — big time.
Perhaps this should not be a surprise. Home Depot stores reported an increase in spending on yard decorations as early as Halloween. Retailers specializing in yard decorations have dubbed it the “coronavirus effect.” They are seeing money traditionally spent on vacations, concerts and other forms of entertainment going toward home decor. Call it what you may, we appreciate the result.
The setup of inflatables — here’s to you, giant Santa Claus — the placement of lawn ornaments, the careful display of reindeer, the neighborly climb up the ladder to string lights on the roof and the hanging of wreaths on the front door all make for a cheerier, yet still socially distant, holiday season.
While we may not be in a position to open our homes to extended family and friends just yet — please be careful and wise about this as vaccines are just being rolled out — this is one way we can share in the holiday spirit while keeping safe this winter. This is one way to bring light to a time of darkness as we experience a dramatic surge in COVID-19 infections.
There’s nothing like driving past a house all decked out for the holidays and aglow in bright lights to bring a smile to one’s face and lighten our collective spirit.
After nine months of limited outings, many of us are going stir-crazy and ready for a diversion. Without the usual holiday parties and festivities, many are struggling with isolation at the darkest time of year. Zoom calls are nice, but they just don’t cut it. You can’t hug on Zoom.
It is no wonder many families put their Christmas trees up before Thanksgiving or started tuning in to Christmas carols before the fall decorations were put away.
It comes as no surprise that Hallmark Cards reports an uptick in holiday sales as people try to stay in touch even though they are unlikely to physically connect.
Similarly, the Christmas tree industry, which has been battling increased interest in artificial trees, has seen a renewed interest in fresh-cut evergreens this year.
May this continue long after the pandemic. We hope the increased outdoor decorating for the holidays is not short-lived, but instead becomes a thing. Summon your inner Clark Griswold, people. Make like you live in Windcrest and light up your yard for all to celebrate.
Several commercial holiday light shows are sparkling in our area — and those are fun. But get outside and take neighborhood strolls in the frosty air to enjoy your neighbor’s light displays. Take time to enjoy the lights this holiday season. Take time to enjoy the light in each other.