One of my favourite holiday movies is A Christmas Story. If you haven't seen it, it's the story of a boy getting ready for Christmas, and his desire for a specific present. The movie is a journey leading up to Christmas morning, as told by his older self. I always watch it while I'm assembling the tree (yes, I have an environmentally friendly tree, some assembly required).
For me, it's the lead-up to Christmas that's the most fun. The anticipation means more to me than the actual day, perhaps because the present part seems to be concluded so quickly. My kids used to wake up at 5 a.m., unable to wait a moment longer to see what was under the tree. By 7 a.m., the presents were open, the boxes and wrapping in recycling and I was already fixing a toy, before most people had even opened their eyes.
The week before Christmas is the best part. Everything is decorated, the lights are up everywhere and, except for the frantic last-minute shoppers (of which I am a charter member), there is a calm that comes over the community. Add a little snow if we are lucky, and it's perfect.
I guess the reason why it seems so perfect is because people, especially in our community, take the time to do things for each other. Many donate toys to the Deltassist Toy Depot, which makes a child's Christmas something to remember, instead of something to feel bad about. Others give their time and spend a long night with Operation Red Nose. There is no better feeling than knowing you helped someone get home, with their car, safe and sound. (They still need volunteers for this year's program. Not only is it a great thing to do for the community, it's a lot of fun.)
But those are the bigger commitments that people make for each other at this time of year. It's the smaller things that people do that fill in the holiday spirit. It's amazing how you can brighten someone's day with a simple smile and a hello, or a wave of thanks when someone has let you merge into their lane of traffic, even if it was your turn. The effort required is minimal, but the impact is great.
We, as Canadians, always get ribbed for being too polite and apologizing for everything. It reminds me of a joke: How do you get 100 Canadians out of a pool? Ask them. But who cares. If the worst thing the world can say about us is we are too polite, then so be it. That's one thing we don't have to apologize for.
I'm really looking forward to the next few days leading up to Christmas. Before we know it, though, it will be over, like so much wrapping and empty boxes. But it won't take much to carry that feeling throughout the year. Smile more. Say hello to a stranger. Hold a door open for someone. When someone lets you merge, even if it's your turn, wave. And be sure to use all five fingers. Carry the feeling of the most wonderful time of the year throughout the year.
Merry Christmas, and all the best for a wonderful New Year!
Brad Sherwin, MBA has over 25 years' experience in marketing, public relations and business strategy. He is the president of the Deltassist board and has worn the Rudy suit for Operation Red Nose.
