Cherishing the Tradition: Writing Christmas Cards with Heart

Writing Christmas cards is one of those cherished holiday traditions that evokes fond memories of my childhood. I can vividly recall my mom sitting down at the dining table, the scent of pine filling the room, and classic Christmas music playing in the background. With a full box of cards from Woolworths, TG&Y or K-Mart and a Bic pen in hand, she would spend days writing heartfelt messages, often filling each card with entire letters. It usually took her two or three days to complete every card in the box before sending them out, ensuring that each one was a personal touch of holiday cheer.

I always admired my mom's ability to express so much in her Christmas cards. She had a talent for connecting with people through her letters, hopefully making every recipient feel special. In contrast, I found myself struggling to write more than a line or two. For years, I simply signed my name and Terry's name, feeling somewhat inadequate compared to my mom's eloquence. However, over the past few years, I've made a concerted effort to improve. While I may not yet match my mom's lengthy missives, I've started adding more personal touches to each card, hoping to capture some of that warmth and connection.

One thing I've noticed in recent years is a trend where people will only send a card if they receive one first, and some have stopped sending them altogether. It made me wonder if there's an unspoken obligation or need for reciprocation when it comes to holiday cards. Personally, I believe that writing Christmas cards should come from a place of genuine holiday spirit rather than a sense of duty. For me, it's about maintaining a tradition that I cherish, regardless of whether I receive a card in return. It's a way to reach out, share some joy, and let people know they're remembered during the festive season.

I continue to send Christmas cards to the same people each year because I love the tradition. It's a small, meaningful way to spread a bit of happiness and keep the holiday spirit alive. As I sit down to write my cards, I think of my mom and the care she put into each one. While I may never write entire letters within my cards, I hope that my efforts bring a smile to the faces of those who receive them. After all, it's the thought and the heartfelt intention behind each card that truly matters.

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