Christmas Cheer

At the risk of getting preachy, I've spent a lot of time lately thinking about how the world has changed. In reality, I don't think it's changed as much as some claim, but I think one thing that seems to be decreasing in importance is the value of community and a shared belief that we are in "it" together. Whether it's politicians urging people to "keep what's theirs" or attacking collectively-driven acts as socialist and evil, I think our increasing social isolation undermines our democracy and decreases our quality of living. I'm all for independence, but not at the expense of compassion, empathy, and humanity.

In short, I'm a bleeding heart, and I don't think that's a bad thing.

Why raise such deep thoughts on a blog? Last night, we went to a Christmas party hosted by our good friends, Amy and Byron. Byron is in a brass quintet and organized a caroling event where his brass group would knock on doors in the neighborhood and play a song or two. When he went to the first house, the person seemed shocked to see his neighbor offering some Christmas music and holiday cheer. Obviously, the neighbor and the rest of the neighborhood warmed up to the music right away, and it made me wonder why we don't see more caroling or general neighborliness.

A week ago, we hosted our second annual cookie exchange for our neighbors. It was a lot of fun, and I wished we had events like that more often. At Halloween, I was surprised at how many parents didn't want to Trick-or-Treat in their neighborhood. They preferred the "safety" of going to a mall or shopping district over knocking on the doors of their neighbors. I respect the decisions of parents to do what they think is right, but I found their perspective troubling.

I love all the holiday traditions of socializing with people you may never get to know if you didn't live next to each other. I love the idea of teaching Arlo about the importance of being connected to the people around him and the value of being part of a community. To me, it's as important as being connected to our world in general: to know where your food comes from, where your water originates, what plants and animals are around you, what art or music is in your midst. All of these things make us cultured and form our individual and collective identity. Without these connections, how do you have the awareness and sensitivity to know how to operate as a society?

Ok, enough commentary. Now for some photos and a video of last night's festivities.

Byron's brass group in warmer digs.

Christmas sweets!

Bundled Up Boy

Apparently, Arlo can sleep anywhere, as he fell asleep during the quintet's performance.

Apologies for the dark video, but this is a clip of the outdoor performance by Byron's brass quintet.
The video also gives you a sense for the Christmas extravaganza that is the Olympic Manor neighborhood. When we moved into the house a few years ago, we started a tradition of walking through Olympic Manor on or near Christmas Eve. It's truly a sight to be seen.

The Nonericks wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!