2009 Holiday Review: Recession? Really?

I couldn’t help but howl that’s so yesterday when a friend waxed poetic about his latest electronics haul. Jeez, had his inbox rejected the recap circulated en masse detailing how “I need” TKO’d “I want” in our bout against a broken economy?

Many of us were well on our way to cashing the instant gratification check before reality cancelled self-indulgence’s platinum card. Against the fashionista grain, even well-heeled handbag fiends for the real thing began flinging replicas or declaring their own initials enough. In a blink, the good times’ roll screeched to a halt, mandating drastic lifestyle shifts.

However, if we ignore 2009’s dried-up credit lines, “all about me” and the microwave mentality - wanting what we wanted when we wanted it and not a minute too late - dominated the decade’s attitudes. Given the challenging muck through which we’ve collectively trudged, whether foreclosure, Hurricane Ike or lost revenue, wouldn’t it be prudent to retire the selfish streak’s long run?

Although filled with the usual fare of food fixings and white-bearded décor, this holiday season was dramatically different with shop ‘til you drop adherence registering a notable absence. Slashed or abbreviated gift lists shone a brighter light on Christmas’ true significance: It’s never been about the gifts we shop exhaustively for but God’s gift of eternal life through the sacrifice of his son Jesus Christ. Ultimately, ‘tis the reason for the season, not the continuously ringing retail bells beckoning debt.

I appreciated the material gifts some generously gave but gifts of love and friendship were equally special. Intangibles like these are particularly priceless because they cost nothing and never necessitate a box or a bow. In fact, one holiday highlight entailed reconnecting via numerous texts and email exchanges with high school and college chums I’ve not laid eyes on in years. Reaching out and touching successfully delivered a warm and fuzzy feeling that will likely stay with me throughout the year.

Given the me decade’s expiration 40 years ago, (yes, it’s been that long), it’s my wish that a bold spirit emblazoned with ‘more we and less me’ emerges in 2010. Happy New Year, New You!

New Me