Give your Christmas an extra meaning
by Benoît Bleau, translation Sheila Lord (December 2011)
The holiday season is almost here and, if you are like me, you are tearing your hair out to think of gift ideas for your loved ones without spending frightful sums on electronic objects made in China or in other over-exploited countries. Here are a few suggestions to please your guests and also help to boost our local economy.
Spend time with your family and enjoy some light-hearted activities out-of-doors or indoors, as Mother Nature permits. Our loved ones will remember these special moments longer than they will a gadget which might have cost a fortune and might end up with others like it in some cupboard. Why not prolong these good times with a meal to which all the members of the family contribute (not just Mom!)? The pleasure of sharing a meal together is always greater when everybody shares in the preparation.
If you are planning to eat out, and can afford it, why not support a local restaurant and show your appreciation with agoodtip. Attend one of the numerous Christmas concerts or plays put on by local talent. The people involved are almost always volunteers and cherish the appreciation of the public.
Offer gifts which you have made yourself or bought from a local artisan. Our region is well endowed with many very talented artists and artisans who will be able to meet your expectations. Don’t miss the Christmas fairs and markets.
Christmas is above all a time for love and joy. How can one be joyous when there are so many people in our neighbourhood who are in need? Why not invite somebody who is alone to join you for a family meal? You can also support bill C-233 aimed at eliminating poverty by signing, and getting others to sign, the petition to be found at the following web address and by forwarding it to our MNA Ann Minh-Thu Quach. makepovertyhistory.ca
Christmas should no longer be a reason for turning out our pockets so as to enable China to construct a new sparkling city. Christmas should be a chance to support our local economy and consolidate our own community starting with our own family. Why not start a new tradition?
Happy holidays to everybody. May the spirit of Christmas cheer you and shine like a beacon during these short chilly days. Remember that moderation “is the best policy”. Wishing you a happy and fulfilling 2012.
Benoît Bleau, 450-247-0317, benoit.bleau@gmail.com