Fr. Simon recalls the good ol’ days when Christmas was simple. Contrast that with today’s shiny, shop-till-you-drop chaos, and it’s clear: we’ve veered off course. So, when did Christmas start getting so over the top? Father suggests it’s tied to the rise of industrialization and the post-WWI shift in culture, when shopping started replacing Christ as the central focus. 😬

Even as a kid in the 1950s, Fr. Simon noticed the “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” vibe overtaking the faith-based celebration. 🎶 He pinpoints the commercialization of Christmas music and decorations as a key turning point: when Christmas trees and jingle bells became a countdown to consumerism instead of Christ’s birth.

So, what can we do about it? Father’s advice is solid (and refreshingly practical):

Emphasize Advent 🌟: Light the wreath, say some scripture, and build anticipation for Christ, not just the gifts.

Pace the decorations: Hold off on decking the halls until closer to Christmas.

Make it last: Celebrate the full Christmas season, keeping decorations and joy alive until at least Epiphany (or even Candlemas on Feb. 2 if you’re bold!).

✨ Key takeaway: It’s about reclaiming Christmas as a celebration of Christ’s birth, not a marathon of materialism. And hey, maybe throw in a few wise traditions, like caller Mary Alice’s “moving Wise Men” nativity scene. 🎁👑

So, yeah, let’s skip the industrial-strength Christmas and go back to celebrating the real reason for the season.

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