Can-dos rule during the holidays

I recall thinking to myself last year around this time that I would do better next year: have the gifts wrapped, the tree up, lights a-blaze and parcels sent by now.

Ah, but here we are, on the cusp of Christmas 2008, and I’m nowhere near prepared. My to-do list is now a get-it-done! document that grows larger with each passing hour.

Like the tolling of the bell in Scrooge’s parlour to herald the arrival of the spirits, the clock is against me and my time is short. I’ll be one of those wretched souls scurrying about Dec. 24 looking desperately for that special something and having absolutely no luck in such a foolish endeavour.

I suppose we’re discussing poor time management skills, but when you’re on early deadline at work, the kids are crying with either excitement or incipient flu and not a single thought is geared toward ho-ho-ho, a high level of organization is indeed a tall order.

Yes, normal folk will be nestled at home, enjoying the gentle glow of the woodstove, egg nog (and accoutrement) and Bing Crosby warbling “White Christmas”. They’ll be seasonal as all get-out as the lights on the tree conspire with the tinsel to wink with the promise of good things to come.

I’m loath to admit it, but the can-dos rule during the holidays. Like good little elves, they draft a plan, execute it flawlessly and pity the hapless that fail to do likewise.

Why does it come to this? Such a clear and defining distinction between do- and don’t-bees?

It’s enervating, for sure, and as much as there is left to be done, I’ll admit we’ve made inroads. Thank heavens for my wife’s ability to work, shop, manage kids and decorate at practically the same time. I’d love to bask in the glory, but that would be wrong.

She has brought us to this crucial moment, enshrining holiday spirit with each wreath, bow and card and every good wish on her lips.

Oh, we’ll make it, same as we have every other year. Santa will find us, we’ll share thanks and Christmas dinner, phone family members across the country and realize we can, in fact, keep Christmas as well as Ebenezer in the end.

No matter the pace or the sense of being Hoovered into the vortex that accompanies the season, it’s important to keep top of mind that we are blessed.

Not everyone can say the same and each of us should hold a prayer in our hearts for those who feel disenfranchised at this or any other time of year.

Christmas is equally joyous and difficult by times and despite the shopping, presents, tinsel and treats, it is ultimately about caring and a determination to find meaning amidst the madness.

I hope each of us find what we seek as Christmas arrives, no matter the moment or the hour of discovery. Embrace the warmth and goodwill of family, friends and neighbours because it’s what makes Christmas sparkle.

Even if time is running out and there are a million things left to do. Merry Christmas!