‘Tis the season for giving
Steven Bentsen
Retired Evil Mastermind
This convention remains a mystery to me. Alright, if you have charcoal bricks and snowballs at the ready I can’t really blame you. I’m a scrooge, bah-humbug, go on and do what you gotta do.
Now then, take a breath, grab a mug of something warm, curl up in front of the fire, and relax. It isn’t as though I’m opposed to people having a charitable spirit, I think that’s a beautiful facet of the human condition which more individuals should cultivate. My issue is the timing. Why shouldn’t we all be giving more of ourselves to those we love especially, but the world in general every day of our lives?
Granted, if we were all back in a time and place where the winter hardship regularly ended lives of our loved ones, sharing hearth and home in addition to hosting grand feasts makes a bit more sense to me. These days some of our dangers have changed, and some of the old customs have likely been warped over time. Not my biggest concern, cultural evolution is bound to happen, many of the original customs are outside of my awareness and that isn’t likely to change, though my lack of cheer remains.
I don’t need a man in the clouds, or one wearing a big red dress, watching over my life in order to ensure I behave as a decent individual. I should think each and every one of us whom regard ourselves as adults comprehend pain, loss, tragedy, and that our condition is not isolated or entirely unique. Empathy should come easily, give a care and a thought about those around you, help when you’re able, and try to make your space in this world a little bit better every day. The jaded cynic within scoffs, knowing just how often such kindness gets taken for granted or preyed upon by those of a mind bent towards wickedness, or selfishness at the very least.
It isn’t easy. There will be pain, and likely sacrifice. Looking out for one’s self might get you through life, but the greatest joys in my life have grown out of love and unity, not isolation or being a miser. Give from the heart, not the pocket. Generosity of spirit, whether a shoulder to lean/cry on, a hand to pull someone back up to their feet, or a few kind words might do more good for someone than any shiny new bauble.
