By Sophia Katramadakis
Let us welcome the days of crackling firewood and glass-dusted greenery.
Days constricting, as we watch the bleak nights fade into the apristity of dawn.
Let us welcome the feather-filled jackets and the garter-stitched accessories.
As our ice-kissed cheeks flush from the breath of Mother Nature.
A tapestry of contentment woven together by the fine thread of harmony.
Let us welcome the season of elation with open arms.
Our home, fills with the seasonal sweet scent of pine and cinnamon.
As nature's needles line the floor like dust on an old bookshelf.
Let us welcome Christmas.
But not forget its meaning.
Even when we non-stop shop till we drop, trying to top the glitter-wrapped objects of the previous year, as if a game of cat and mouse attempting to seize the synthetic memories.
Even when the torn wrapping paper lines the floor like leaves from the tree of materialism.
Let us not forget its meaning
Once a time of celebration now a nation of manipulation as capitalization roars.
Targeted, add this to my cart but don’t forget to get a head start on the Black Friday deals.
Once a world simple pleasure now we measure joy when opening plastic treasure.
Our pixelated carts fill with hard-earned money as we say to ourselves
“Tis The season”
But let us not forget the reason why we gather together to unwrap these temporary memories.
Let us not forget the feeling of when our senses envelope into a life of laughter and bliss.
Memories created from the cookie cut dough of love and affection.
As we gain protection from the connection of those around us.
Let us not forget simple traditions that guide us through the season of prosperity.
Let us not forget Christmas.