Don’t get me wrong. I love millennials. I even have a few.
And Lord knows roller derby needs them for Freshmeat (accepted term for derby newbies, no other implication intended). Even during the holidays.
But when I read a recent MoneyWise article (“OK Boomers, These Christmas Traditions Are Dying Out”), I had a definite Boomerish response.
Granted, there are a few of the 24 things these youngsters are opting out of about which I agree: Rampant consumerism (#7), Overspending (#10). Assuming everyone celebrates Christmas (#20).
And there are some traditions on the list that I have never had a part of: Pets as gifts (#2) – who puts animals under the tree in boxes? Thank goodness there are scented candles. Christmas tree up on Christmas Eve (#14) – why wait? Dancing around the Christmas tree (#18) – like, how? All the furniture has been crammed into existing space to make way for the Christmas tree. Christmas Eve boxes (#24) – ok, so maybe you get to open one present, but that’s a last minute decision, not a box.
I also agree that some traditions are, in fact, a little creepy when you get right down to it: Elf on the Shelf (#4) – actually, I think the millennials invented that one and now regret it. Sitting on Santa’s lap (#6) – goes without saying. Mistletoe (#5) – ok if its the right person, but have you ever had someone approach you with that gleam in his/her eye as you walk in the door?
Then there are some just bratty answers listed: Christmas music (#8) – hey, you have technology. Ask Alexa for the music you want. Hallmark Christmas movies (#9)- same answer – change the channel. White elephant games (#12) – Its a way to avoid #7 and #10 above.
Caroling (#15) – agree that it shouldn’t be used to secure donations or a Go Fund Me event, but lets not throw it away altogether. Fruitcake (#16) – have you ever really had one? Decorating (#21) – I think this meant to be directed to stores, but again, let’s not throw it away.
Stores closed on Christmas (#22) – to repeat, see #7 and #10. Some people just want to stay home that day.
And my favorite from the list: Tradition itself (#17). You would think they were born in the 50’s like the Boomers.
However, I have to wonder to whom this article writer spoke. Christmas cards (#1) tops the list of no-no’s, but at least half of the cards I received this year came first and promptly from the millennials in the crowd.
Then there are the presents: Mandatory family gifts (#3) and Finding that Perfect Gift (#23). There’s always #12. I for one love finding the perfect gift. I look all year long and collect special things. One year I drew pictures because I didn’t have any money for gifts. I guess if that’s not your thing, pick out a special card.
Oh yeah. Forgot about #1. And it involves stamps. So, find the perfect emoji, then. It’s just that time of year no matter what you believe (see #20 again.) A time to connect or reconnect and refresh relationships. A time to spread goodwill. A time to say let’s move forward.
And speaking of relationships, I wish to address this whole group of traditions that respondents say are on the way out: Fancy dinners and meals (#11), Visiting multiple relatives (#13), Being around family (#20),
To that I say, get off your butt. Learn how to use that extra fork in the place setting. Go over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house as quickly as you can. Visit as many people, friends and family as you can fit into your schedule, even if that bossy sister, that cranky uncle, that opinionated cousin are all there.
I guarantee you. When you hit Boomer age and the Freshmeat generation is calling “OK, Millennial!”, you are going to wish you did.
SKATE ON!
Darla