I’m back for another year, and the calendar is crowded with family gatherings, curious traditions, Christmas melodies, and a mural of colorful lights. There are moments when the urge to press pause on December rises, a small rebellion against the rush. And yes, there are times when the impulse to explain a deeper motive behind the season feels necessary. This piece steps into that conversation, offering a personal viewpoint about what Christmas often becomes in practical terms rather than in ideals.
The author does not condemn the feeling of celebration itself. The critique lies with the external and surface elements that often accompany it. The Christmas setup can feel overwhelming—whether the decorations, the endless party favors, or the rituals that seem to demand maximum consumption. Real ecological costs come with natural trees or even many plastics, wrapped in lights and planned for a single event, a reminder that our choices leave a footprint on the planet. The spectacle can resemble a crowded stage where the message of joy gets lost in the noise. Santa figures climbing stairs throw a playful, almost reckless, challenge into the mix. The ritual of gift giving, often framed as magical, can land as a browsing spree with uneven value. The idea of batteryless toys may promise wonder but can echo a momentary illusion for children and adults alike. The twelve grapes tradition might be playful, yet the crunch of each moment can feel overwhelming. A serious question lingers: is the speed of celebration compatible with long term well being? In a season of abundance, it is common to drift into a pattern of excess that outlasts the holiday itself. And the cycle of indulgence often spills into a long, hard stretch from the holidays into the new year, leaving a sense of excess that feels out of place in a healthy life.
Those who follow this voice know that skepticism can be part of the Christmas landscape. A critical stance toward overpriced goods, crowded stores, and the energy costs of heating and cooling in busy homes is not merely complaint; it is a reminder to assess what truly matters. The aim is not to erase seasonal joy but to temper it with practical wisdom that protects the environment and personal health while still sharing warmth with others.
What about international concerns that touch every doorstep? The conflict in Ukraine remains a reminder of human costs beyond borders. In Spain and parts of Europe the response to the crisis has shown a willingness to open hearts and hands, providing aid to refugees and delivering essential supplies. Global events ripple into everyday life, shaping conversations about generosity, solidarity, and the responsibility that communities bear toward those in need.
The year also carries ecological memory. The Canary Island of La Palma faced a long lingering challenge tied to its volcanic landscape, while Europe grappled with record heat and drought in many regions. Reservoirs dipped to historically low levels, and the climate narrative settled into a stark warning: drought, fires, and heatwaves are not distant phenomena but present realities. How communities adapt—through water management, energy resilience, and local planning—will define future seasons as much as any festival does.
The health system and social infrastructure in a post pandemic world face ongoing strain marked by uneven planning and uneven resource allocation. The memory of policy missteps and the need for stronger, smarter responses continues to prompt discussion about what a robust, responsive public service looks like. Within this frame, the tragedy at a border crossing in Melilla that claimed lives underscores how political decisions intersect with human vulnerability. Education and governance alike are called to improve, with a focus on fairness, accountability, and practical solutions that protect the vulnerable while sustaining civic life.
In the realm of culture and sport, inspiration comes from standout figures who shape the public conversation. A rising tennis star from Murcia reached a historic milestone at a young age, reminding readers that talent can rise quickly under the right conditions. The music scene finds energy in artists who blend tradition with fresh momentum, powering a revolution in how audiences experience sound without heavy backing. Tribute is also paid to a revered songwriter whose work remains a touchstone for many, celebrated for its honesty and emotion. The personal creed remains simple and bold: be true to oneself, speak with integrity, and use freedom of choice to guide one’s actions.
It comes back to a simple message, spoken aloud or kept close: be yourself, for better or worse, and seek happiness while sharing kindness every day of the year. The essence of Christmas, when stripped to its core, can be found not in the maze of presents or performances but in something quieter and more enduring. May the spirit of the season glow with genuine warmth, well beyond December, and may every heart find a pace that feels right for 365 days of the year.