The Hierarchy of Christmas Greetings

Over the Christmas holiday season, at least one-half of The State Of . . received a number of Christmas wishes by a number of means. For some reason I took note of the differences between these well wishes. Below is how I grouped them.

1. Christmas cards. These came from really close friends and colleagues and are usually a holiday staple. They also usually included a hand written note inside along with that printed in the card. Those with newborns and kids included pictures (Thanks, Justin!). I feel the holiday spirit with these cards and look forward to when I will get off my but and send off my own.

2. Christmas calls. These usually come on the celebrated day from friends and relatives and involved the passing of the phone so that every singe relative could speak to every single relative no matter if it has been over a decade since you saw or spoke to them.

3. Christmas ecards. They are relatively new for me. I received one last week from a former acquaintance with whom I had not spoken in quite some time. I thought it very generic and lacking the holiday spirit. I was not incline to call this person or inquire as to there well-being. Their standing with me was, oddly enough, reflected in the lackluster way in which they delivered their holiday wishes.

4. The text message. I saw this for the first time this year and I hope it does not last. One was from another acquaintance with whom I had not had contact with for some years. I know it’s the thought that counts, but it felt . . . lazy. I also got one from a close relative and a close friend. I still love them but was dismayed at the instrument of their holiday wishes.

Keep these in mind for next year and take note of who sends what to with you a Merry Christmas!