5 Responses to “An Alternative Christmas”
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In Violation!
Over the past few thousand years, humankind has regarded Nature as property. 
This concept is rooted in biblical text and has spawned generations who have regarded themselves as having dominion over the Earth. 
The feudal system was based on dominion and continues today as a land-grab mentality, based on the principles of ownership and extraction. 
Where we are at this point in time is the evolution of that concept, that biblical teaching, where we are now forced to try to manage degradation of the environment rather than prevent it. 
We blow the tops off mountains to extract minerals. 
Hundreds of chemicals are injected into the Earth to extract gas. 
The filth of Tar Sands is hailed as our energy saviour! 
Seed is wrenched from us to be “owned” by corporations like Monsanto. 
Presidents enact laws to protect these creatures of destruction from the very courts that are there to protect you! Nine days ago I started a petition.
http://www.avaaz.org/en/petition/We_Will_Not_Comply/?cCgoWbb
Nine days ago I drew my line in the sand, deciding to refuse to comply with laws that violate Mother Earth and the abundance she so generously bestows upon us. 
My own line in the sand has been confirmed this morning as the decision to refuse to comply with all laws that violate Mother Earth has been made. 
The days of fence sitting are over. The gloves are off
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During this time for me ‘bringing in the green’ is what my grandmother taught me. So I have been visiting the places that sell cut ever green trees and picking up the branches cut from the bottoms to put in grapevine wreaths, place on tables in bowls and hang in sashes every where.
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Sounds great! I omitted to say that I bring in the green!
Blessings,
Colx
Sounds perfect. I love Christmas, but that is because I only do the parts I like. All gifts are home made, all food is made from scratch. I bring in lots of greens gathered in the woods or from my trees and the house is very festive. Our new wood stove has made it perfect with its cozy warmth. I know people who hate Christmas, seeing it as a stressful time with too many obligations. They seem to let others define what Christmas should be. Such a shame really. Your approach seems more like what Christmas, Solstice, Midwinter…whatever you call it , should be. Enjoy!! Patti
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I like your approach…only doing the parts you like! That is a good template to apply to all the commercialized celebrations. I love this time of year too, especially the scents of greenery around the cottage.
Blessings,
Colx
I love the idea of each person contributing to a feast that all will enjoy. Do you also share the washing-up?
I strive to keep Christmas simple too. My children seem all the happier for not being overwhelmed. It is a lovely to watch their faces light up with joy – not only when they receive special hand made gifts but when they give them too
Warm Midwinter Blessings xx
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“Overwhelmed!” That is the word that perfectly sums up the feelings of Christmas excess. It’s good to know that others feel this too and are taking steps to reclaim Christmas! Simplicity, I believe is the key.
Blessings to you and yours,
Colx
Sounds just lovely. I’ve been struggling with this one…with lots of young children in our extended family, its hard to buck the trend for Christmas including lots of ‘stuff’. We do love homemade food, little presents and treats made by/with the children, and so on. But still, there seems to be a lot of shopping! Maybe just being aware of it is a start; perhaps I can try to simplify a little each year. Thanks for the reminder and the inspiration.
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You are absolutely right…just being aware of it is a start…if change is gradual and thoughtful, it is hardly noticeable! Being mindful is the important part of reclaiming what is ours: the ability to celebrate in joy, not stress!
Blessings to you and yours
Colx
Good Evening, I found your site a few months ago and have enjoyed reading all about life in Ireland. It made my husband and I so jealous as we bought an old 13 acre property and would love to be restoring the house, pottering in the garden and living the type of life that you are. Imagine my surprise and delight when I read your alternative Christmas article and discovered that we are close by!! Our house is in Ballanagare, just through French Park. Currently we are living a totally different life on the Island of Bermuda, but would move to Ireland in a heartbeat! So now when I read all about the weather you are experiencing, what animals etc you are feeding in your garden I close my eyes and dream… Best wishes for a wonderful holiday season, Karen and Andrew McKeown
Sent from my iPad
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Welcome to Bealtaine Cottage!
My word, but Bermuda is a long way from this little part of Ireland. When you are next here, do come and pay a visit…you are most welcome! I have friends over in Frenchpark and that’s not too far from Bealtaine Cottage at all.
Enjoy the sunshine and Christmas!
Blessings to you both
Colx