There are two types of people in the world – those who adore Christmas and everyone else. I fall into the first category. The others? They’re simply mistaken.
I’m the person who cranks up festive tunes in early November, decorates the tree right after Thanksgiving dinner, and watches Love Actually repeatedly. It’s not about the religious aspect; it’s the joy of the season—the glimmer and glow, the nostalgia, the cozy warmth that Christmas brings. In essence, I embody the spirit of Cindy Lou Who.
Or at least, I used to.
This year, however, I’m just not feeling it. The thought of singing “O Holy Night” makes me want to scream, and the idea of rewatching Love Actually feels cringe-worthy. Planning safe, socially distant celebrations with family brings me to tears and makes me want to curl up for a nap. It’s all so draining.
Even wrapping presents, which I usually find delightful, seems overwhelming knowing my kids will be around all the time. We often give experiences as gifts, but many of those—travel, sports events, movies—are off the table this year.
On top of that, there’s this constant sense of blah that has settled in. Life during a pandemic is still challenging, and I’m feeling it. My jaw aches, I constantly have a headache, and my shoulders and neck are tense. I rarely sleep through the night due to nagging anxiety. Finding excitement in anything feels nearly impossible.
At best, I feel lukewarm about Christmas this year; at worst, I’m downright bah-humbug. I’ve transformed from Cindy Lou into the Grinch, and it’s frustrating.
I don’t want to be the Grinch. I don’t want to feel indifferent. I refuse to fast-forward through this holiday season; it truly is “the most wonderful time of the year.”
So, I will combat my inner Grinch. I plan to fake it until I make it when it comes to holiday cheer. Sure, I might end up a little like Chevy Chase going “hap-hap-happiest Christmas this side of the nuthouse” crazy at the end of Christmas Vacation, but so be it.
I’ve even marked November 4 as “Operation Holiday Cheer.” We’ll light up some cookie-scented candles, put up decorations, and maybe even play some Bing Crosby or Nat King Cole. We might break a few holiday norms, but who cares? It’s 2020, and the world is chaotic. “Rules” don’t hold much weight anymore.
We may not have defrosted a turkey yet (who am I kidding, there’s no bird in the freezer), and we’re still in the midst of pumpkin spice season. I honestly don’t know anymore. But I’m determined to revive that inner Cindy Lou, no matter what.
It may seem odd to throw around tinsel while unkempt leaves swirl in my yard, but why not? This year has been a whirlwind, and while I appreciate giving thanks, I’m not inclined to decorate for a holiday with questionable origins. I certainly don’t want to see brown leaves or rotting pumpkins. We need some cheer around here.
I crave sparkle and glitter. I desire bright red ornaments amidst a sea of silver tinsel. I want twinkling lights and the sound of jingling bells. Sure, we might not be able to hold hands and sing Fa Who Doraze around a giant tree like the Whos (thanks to social distancing), but I refuse to be a gloomy Grinch.
So rather than waiting until after Thanksgiving to bring out the Christmas decorations and carol away, I’ll be hauling up the red and green bins from the basement tomorrow. I’ll sing along with Bing Crosby as I deck the halls. I’ll watch Elf countless times and laugh maniacally at Clark Griswold’s antics in Christmas Vacation. After all, we’re all a bit on edge this year, aren’t we?
So yes, I’m feeling a bit Grinchy this year. Perhaps you are too. But I’m ready to fight it, because we could all use a little Cindy Lou in our lives right now.
This piece was originally published on Oct. 30, 2020.
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In summary, this year’s holiday spirit can feel elusive, but with a proactive approach and a bit of creativity, it’s possible to revive that festive feeling even in challenging times.