Holiday Wishes

Dear friends and family, loved ones and all

We are all in a bind. Financially the world is in deficit. Emotionally we are stretched. And although some of us, here or there may feel fine for the moment, a great struggle lies ahead with loss and grief and a change of ways.

I am going to ask for something very specific for the holidays and for Christmas. Before the “what do you want for Christmas” phone calls come in, and emails with ideas for presents, I want to post this so it has time to ruminate.

I want for nothing, truly. I am blessed. Deeply, bountifully blessed in my life and nothing burns unsatisfied by anything that can be considered commercial.

Please, for this Christmas, do not buy anything for me.

I know what they are saying about what will happen to the economy if we fail to buy product. I know what they are saying about the state of the world and the current financial crisis. I’m aware. I pay attention.

But if you really want to do something for me for the Holidays. Call. Send an email with your thoughts. Spend quality time with me and work on our relationship. Take pictures with me and tell stories. These things hold more value in my life than possessions ever have or will.

It may seem simple but for some of you – it will be really difficult. I appreciate that. I am not unaware of how you like/need to express your Christmas love. And in those circumstances, if you must, I would prefer that rather than sending a gift to me, you make a donation to a charity of your choice. You can even call if you need ideas; I have several suggestions of worthy charities in need of support.

Please know, I will be doing the same thing. Many of you know I am unemployed and paying off huge credit card bills from my surgery.

I will not be participating in Black Friday. I will not be leaving my house with the fear of yet more strain or stress or financial burden this year. In some cases I will be making gifts with supplies I already have, and writing letters, emails and taking pictures.

The aim of this endeavor is to make life easier for as many folks as possible. Don’t send me money. Don’t send me pre-paid cards or gift cards. Don’t stretch yourselves financially or mentally this holiday season. Don’t stand in line for 3 hours on Black Friday because you think you can get that pair of boots I’d love or pick up an extra deal here or there for stocking fillers. Not for me. Please.

What I want for Christmas this year is love in the form of communication, quality time, the sharing of memories. I want to snuggle next to my people, and drink hot chocolate on a cold winter day, watch movies and share dreams of times to come.

This may seem strange to some of you, even uncomfortable or involved. But truly, it’s my wish.

Dear Santa,

Please bring me love I can’t hold or tally, but can feel and remember.

In times like these, when as a people we are hurting and confused, scared and stressed. Fearful of the basic necessities being met and anxious how it will all play out – I feel like the best thing we can do is become tighter, stronger, reinforcing the bonds and help minimize the commercial deterioration of a holiday that was never meant to be about money.

It seems silly to have to spell it out, but I still know folks who feel pressured to give at the holidays and give even when they are already pinched, burdened or struggling. Please don’t.  Not for me.

I wish you all the best holidays, with all the love and happiness you could possibly endure. May you be swollen with great memories and candied by love from those you cherish.

In these difficult times, may you find joy and peace within.

I love you.

Happy Holidays,

Athena