The dreaded family "Christmas" card

A few years ago, I did a blog about the dreaded Christmas newsletter (See "The dreaded Christmas newsletter", Dec. 22, 2012).  I mercilessly mocked one we used to get from the wife of an old friend of B's, due to the pomposity, self-importance and self-aggrandizement that ran through her whole, turgid tome.  (Just went back and re-read it; yes, it's merciless, but very funny.)

Happily, that was the last one received from this woman.  Evidently, she didn't like being made fun of.

Now my quest is to get rid of "Christmas" cards that feature family pictures instead of actual Christmas messages -- you know, like the fact that we are celebrating the birth and adoration of Christ, not the adoration of mum, dad and the kiddies. 

Look at us!  We're more important than Jesus!

People must actually plan these all year, because most feature photos taken throughout each season.  Imagine!  Spending your time thinking of your non-Christmas card while you are on summer vacation!  Sure, by all means, add a couple of photos with the card, or put a Christmas greeting on the picture, but to just feature yourself with no reference to what the day is all about?  No.

One of the most thoughtful cards we used to receive was from a Jewish friend, who always sent us a Christmas card because he knew we were Christians.  He's gone now, but his sentiment at Christmas I always remember.  He took the time and trouble to send us an actual Christmas card.

It's too bad Christmas has been highjacked by the folks who celebrate with "Holiday" or "Season's Greetings" cards.  Can't stand these either.  But the absolute worst are the cheap, lazy people who send greetings via the internet.  How cheezy is that!  I mean, spring for a few cards, slap a stamp on them, put them in the post and make an effort to show people you care.

I remember my parents setting up a card table in their bedroom every year and writing a couple hundred cards in early December.  What an ordeal, but they did it.  B and I still do.  

Tomorrow is The Epiphany, so the final Christmas decorations and lights will be put away for another year.  It's a tough task, but life moves on.  Roll on Spring!