December 25th is absolutely the day that causes monumental excitement for some, dread for others, enthusiasm for many, fear for a few, and conflicting emotions ranging from wanting the day to end to hoping it will last beyond its 24 hours. Such varied responses were not the way it used to be, many insist. Maybe because previously the holiday was simpler, less costly, and shorter in duration. We’ve taken a lovely, meaningful day and modernized it almost beyond recognition. Sometimes events are better in original form instead of complicating them with dollar signs, endless to do lists, and the continual angst of dissatisfaction.

Trying to place blame for the current situation is futile. We can bow out whenever we choose, totally ignoring the day and all the hoopla, or redesign it to meet certain criteria, making it personally meaningful once again. We just can’t insist others follow suit. It’s fairly certain the day won’t ever measure up to how it was when we were kids, because now we’re viewing it from an adult perspective. Times change, we grow wiser and older and shift our priorities. Changing with the times is inevitable, but we can still retain our values and traditions.

So when did we allow cynicism and exhaustion to replace joy and exuberance on December 25th? Maybe it was when we allowed November and December to become a marathon of cooking, shopping, cleaning, decorating, and baking, while insisting on standards that would overwhelm even Martha Stewart. Or maybe when we quit celebrating Thanksgiving Day in its entirety so we could be first in line for the latest electronic device which will be “old” by January 2nd. Perhaps when we decided fancy and formal were more important than fun. Or we opted for a perfectly decorated tree instead of one with handmade ornaments dripping with glitter that were lovingly crafted by children’s hands. Maybe when we quit wishing people Merry Christmas because we were more concerned with appearing “correct” than proud of our religious heritage. Or perhaps when we quit caring because everyone knows the season is too commercialized.

Whatever the reason, we can reclaim the day. In a diverse culture like ours with freedom and myriad ways to share affection, there’s room for everyone and their traditions. We can be trendsetters with our celebrations and style. Baking cookies not a specialty? Toss the tradition, delegate, or find alternate treats. Sometimes necessity creates a new tradition. Adult sons and daughters can’t always be home on Christmas Eve or Day so postpone festivities a few days. Don’t waste 48 precious hours moping until everyone’s together. Join with others in similar situations and voila – a new event.

Celebrate occasions with child-like exuberance and delight, and less fussing about the date.Christmas began over two thousand years ago in the most meager of settings. The decision to acknowledge that origin is a personal one but peace, good will, joy, and love are always in keeping with the holidays. Christmas doesn’t happen in a line of weary, irritable shoppers at the Mall. It begins with gratitude and extends beyond. Listen to a choir of children sing “Silent Night” or John Lennon’s recording of “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” and make the commitment to celebrate joyfully the “most wonderful time of the year!”