Well, Christmas approaches ever nearer by the day and when you’re shopping you see the by now familiar signs; drop an extra can of food in for the needy.
It used to be Crees didn’t have the “needy” in the same sense that we have today. We had the less fortunate but not the “needy.” Crees helped out one another with no shame attached but now that seems to be disappearing with the new class differences between us. Some people make a huge amount of money (real or merely perceived) and others don’t. Television has brought home the shame of not keeping up with the Joneses by having the latest gizmo or biggest toys. Just look at the different skidoos to get an idea of this.
I would say that you should drop the can of food in the box but also that you go one step further and help out someone this year. It can be a relative, friend or just someone you’ve noticed having a harder time than you.
Instead of making this person feel she/he is the object of charity tell them that you expect them to repay the favour someday. Not to you but to someone else when they can. In this way, not only will you be passing on the real spirit of Christmas as well as keeping Cree traditions alive (remember the stories of sharing), but so will they. Such a small thing can mean so much for today and for our future.
Another thing that comes to my attention is the amount of partying that happens around this holiday season. Especially around New Years’ Eve. I’m not saying that people shouldn’t party. It’s been happening throughout all of humankind’s history. But sometimes the children are exposed to it at an early age. This was something that concerned me so I looked around for a solution and quite by accident came across one on the Internet.
It involves the church. Someplace in the south, the Lord of Life Lutheran Church is hosting a New Years’ party for kids ages 5-12 from 8 p.m. New Years’ Eve till 9 a.m. New Years’ Day. Their fees are: preregister for $15 per child or $25 per family or register at the door for $20 per child or $35 per family.
During this party there will be a sing-along with marshmallows and hot chocolate followed by indoor games & movies. Pancake breakfast New Years’ morning. Parents are requested to bring sleeping bag, foam mattresses and pillows, toothbrush, hairbrush, pj’s, teddy, a phone number where parents can be reached.
What a great concept. The church raises money while doing good. It shows that the church genuinely cares not only for the spiritual but physical welfare of the community.
These are just a couple of thoughts for the holiday season. Happy Holidays and the best to you and yours from me and mine.
