"Christmas coincides with the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. (I’m sorry Southern Hemisphere, but 87% of the word’s population lives North of the equator)." That's ok, it coincides for us with the summer solstice, another honourable pagan tradition that should also be embraced over soul-sucking consumerism. 😉
At Christmas our extended family members each give whatever sum they are comfortable with to a charity of their choice. At a certain point during the celebration dinner we each say which charity we chose. Small gifts are given to the young children, usually a book or puzzle.
"Christmas coincides with the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. (I’m sorry Southern Hemisphere, but 87% of the word’s population lives North of the equator)." That's ok, it coincides for us with the summer solstice, another honourable pagan tradition that should also be embraced over soul-sucking consumerism. 😉
Good point.
No current ones but I can suggest a new one. No-plastic gifting. This would require any gift to be free of plastic as well as any packaging.
It can start by asking your family and friends to not give you any gifts, or any bought gifts, at least.
Make an effort to underline you'd rather spend time with them, than to receive an item you don't care for.
At Christmas our extended family members each give whatever sum they are comfortable with to a charity of their choice. At a certain point during the celebration dinner we each say which charity we chose. Small gifts are given to the young children, usually a book or puzzle.
My plan was to "buy nothing" on either Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
Unfortunately, my credit card was automagically billed for my cell phone on Friday. Damn! Can't get away from consumerism if you own a phone…