I know that everyone has holiday rituals that stem from childhood and are so deeply ingrained they are not even considered. One of the most lasting for me are holiday movies. I know that I am not alone.
This was really brought home to me last night when I watched “It’s a Wonderful Life”, which I hadn’t seen in a couple of years. It was so satisfying that I realized how much a part of the season it was for me. When I was growing up this movie was in the public domain and so was on constantly during the holiday season. I usually caught at least parts of the movie 3 or 4 times through the month of December, and sat down to see the entire movie once or twice. Every time I would choke up at the ending (“Attaboy Clarence!”).
Other Christmas movies or shows were also a must. I had to watch “A Christmas Carol” – the Alister Sim version of course (“There’s more of gravy than of grave about you, whatever you are!”). I would plan for “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and the original “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” on network TV. Also, for some reason, the Bass and Rankin “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” was on the list. I think it was the Burgermeister Meisterburger.
There are plenty of others that, while not essential, entered the canon in recent years. “Elf” is incredibly funny, and really caught me by surprise when I first saw it in the theaters (have I said recently how much I miss theaters?). For Julie it’s “Love Actually”. And a family favorite is “The Muppets Christmas Carol” (“We’re Marley and Marley Whoooooo!!!”). But for me the classics cannot be replaced.
All of this is what makes the holiday season so different. It is not just the enjoyment of what you are doing that year, but a reflection of what you have been doing your whole life. It is as much nostalgia as it is present reality. While living your entire life in the past is probably not a good idea, finding some time every year to wallow in the memories is healthy, and nothing gives you the chance to do that like the holidays.
So, whatever your holiday rituals – whether its movies, music (viva Vince Guaraldi), decorations (a Starr on the tree), presents, or food (let’s not forget the food!!!!!) – enjoy the next few days and relish the season.
Happy Holidays!!!!!!!!!!
I always loved Mr Magoo’s Christmas Carol and every Christmas morning I’d watch, early, the Laurel and Hardy Babes in Toyland .
Two great classics!!! I loved Mr. Magoo.
Great great post! Merry Christmas! Love to all of the Wamsers, until we meet again.
Same to you and Mike. And we loved the It’s a Wonderful Life surprise, as I am sure you did.
Any Hallmark movie . You know the one where the girl is in turmoil and moves out into the country and meets a guy who shovels her driveway: they fall in love & live happily ever after. Oh yeah, that’s EVERY Hallmark movie 🤣.