A Wiccan's Thoughts on the Craziness of the Holiday Season

As another holiday season is almost over, I'm still struck by the behaviors of others at this time of year. Yes, there are those who give to the needy, give to Toys for Tots, and give to the Salvation Army bell-ringers. Yet, what exactly is it that possesses these same people who so freely give, when they are inside the store or in the parking lot? These same people, who give so freely, suddenly turn into selfish monsters that shove past other people, cut others off for parking spaces, and act like they have to be first in line. For example, I was watching the morning news and disgusted to see a video of two women having a very physical altercation over a parking space. Is this really necessary?

My issues with people have been going on for years. I respect everyone until I have been disrespected by them. I will talk to anyone I meet and love to learn about the lives of others. However, on the eve of Thanksgiving, I was almost hit by a car while walking to my car. How could this happen? The driver had seen a parking spot four spaces behind him, threw it into reverse, and nearly hit me. Why? Just for a better parking spot. If he had not jumped out of the car and rushed into the store, I would have asked him if what he needed in the store was worth running me over. But, as is my understanding and forgiving nature, I just let it go.

As I follow a different religion than most, perhaps that is what makes me different from others. I take the time to enjoy every moment of every day. I take my time driving into town, while others whiz past me like there is no tomorrow. I allow others to go ahead of me in lines or when at a four-way stop. I do not rush, for I may miss an opportunity, either to help someone else or help myself. I do not want to look back on my life and know that I missed the small things because I was rushing about. If you do not enjoy your life, then what is the point of living it?