Relieve the “After-Christmas Blues”
For many people, Christmas Day begins with a bang and ends with a whimper. It needn’t. By celebrating all twelve days of Christmas, you may alleviate those “after-Christmas blues.”
There are many things that contribute to the blues after Christmas. I’ve been disappointed by the shortness of the day. Expectations build for weeks before, then like a snap it’s over.
Celebrations lift the spirits and make us happy, especially when we are giving. I figure that as long as I can celebrate, the longer my spirits will soar. Instead of only celebrating Christmas Day, I like to celebrate all twelve of them.
The tradition began in Western Christianity during the 6th century AD as a sacred and festive occasion from Christmas Day leading up to Epiphany – the feast celebrating the arrival of the Magi to see the child, Jesus. It’s called Christmastide.
You know the song, The Twelve Days of Christmas, during which “my true love gave to me” lots of great stuff?
1 partridge in a pear tree,
2 turtle doves,
3 french hens,
4 calling birds
5 gold rings
6 geese a-laying
7 swans a-swimming
8 maids a-milking
9 ladies dancing
10 lords a-leaping
11 pipers piping
12 drummers drumming
“My true love” must’ve been very happy, indeed.
Gifting doesn’t have to be so extravagant to be merry. Even a little celebration will boost your spirits.
Dr. Ben Carson – U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development – is quoted as saying, “Happiness doesn't result from what we get, but from what we give.”
On the final night – The Twelfth Night – throw a dinner party for a few friends and family. Yes. Try it yourself this Christmastide to chase away those “after-Christmas blues.”
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