CHRISTMAS LETTER TO ALL
I hate Christmas/New Years letters, I really do. The idea that someone can encapsulate a year’s events, in any meaningful way, in a one page summary is just ridiculous. I’m not saying that some people don’t put a real effort into them, and a few are nice, but for the most part the practice irritates me. I think that a real effort should be made on a more regular basis to stay close to those we care about. A yearly letter just isn’t enough. To me that feels like putting a band-aid on a missing leg.
I guess my perspective on this is skewed (or perhaps focused) by my own situation. I live in a world that totally lacks the options of instant communication available to most people these days. Every bit of contact I have with the outside world must be a conscious effort and a dedication of a chunk of time. I have to work to stay in touch. Which is why I am amazed at how little communication happens between those who can do it while standing in line, watching TV, or (while gross) sitting on the toilet. To me a four word text, “How are you doing?” would be more meaningful than a yearly letter. People take for granted the importance of casual contact with friends. It is the spice which adds a depth and complexity to relationships that without leaves things bland and emotionless.
I’ve always believed that the purpose of life is to touch as many people as possible before you die, to leave a lasting impression (hopefully positive) on the world. It doesn’t have to be a global effect, even just opening the eyes of your immediate family is enough, but it should be memorable to those you’ve encountered.
With that in mind, I ask you to pause for a moment and think about the last few days. How many people have you made smile? How many friends have you told, in some way or another, that they are important to you, that you are thinking about them for no reason at all? Who have you helped? Who have you hurt (and was it really worth it)? If you were to disappear tomorrow, who would remember you in a year or more? I hope you don’t feel I’m being preachy, for I am actually trying to give you the one gift I can – a moment of self-reflection. I ask only for you to examine how you treat your friends, families, and lovers and do something if you find yourself wanting. It doesn’t take much, just a few strokes of the keys, a well-timed smile, a pat on the back, or even just a look and a nod. Share yourself with those you care about for a few seconds each day and you’ll see what I’m talking about. The miniscule really does matter. Keep it up all year and you’ll see there is a lot less to write about in a Christmas letter because the people that matter most were there with you all along.
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