And I know many are expressing these laments in terms of those we hold nearest and dearest. The kids won't have their school concert; the pets won't have their Santa picture, the multi-generational massive feast won't be all at the same table.
I recognise that this is not what we want. We want the traditions, we want the experiences, we want that inaccessible sense of historical security. Though, would everything *really* be okay if we did what we've always done? Or can we be open to new opportunities?
I have seen many expressions of enthusiasm as families are focusing their energy on building traditions around their priorities. They are rejecting the "woe is ME!" mentality as they establish new ways to celebrate, having re-evaluated the intention behind each of those things that are changed.
The family meal? A friend is creating 'take-out' packages and door-drop-delivering to their family, who will all join on Zoom - where no one needs to change out of their PJs!
The church service or carol sing? With online options, Christmas is so big it bursts beyond the confines of one building! (I'll be worshiping in London and New York, and Winnipeg and Lunenburg!)
The fellowship? A friend has compiled a recording of a favourite book for her children, with each chapter read by a different member of the tribe: each day they listen, chat about the person, and send a note of care back.
The parties? Phone-a-friend and don't worry about vaccuuming up the dog hair!
This year is definitely different. And we're not always comfortable with different. But let's find ways to use that different setting that we've been given as a way to increase our intentionality about celebrating. And who knows - maybe our new traditions will be so exciting that even in a post-COVID world we'll want to continue them.
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