Unfortunately, these are, indeed, too far and few-between to be of cultural worth – in fact, they are significant by their rarity.

I’ve often pointed out the ugly truth of American Thanksgiving; in fact, at age 13 I told my parents that I really didn’t want to ‘do Christmas’ any more, because it had nothing to do with anything of a spiritual nature, but had rather become a Celebration of Greed.

The American Celebration of Greed and Gluttony (commencing today, and ending on December 25th) is a month-long orgy of the very worst in American society – so much so that our very economy depends on it.

Hate is a strong word – I don’t like being responsible for its proper use, so I use it sparingly – but I’ll say it plain: I hate this time of year.

Seemingly though, we do ‘need’ this day — and all the days between now and then, culminating with finding out how much ‘swag’ we’ve scored from friends, family, and relatives. We need to prove how much we have.

We need to prove how much we make – or can borrow.

We need this time of year as much as a cheater needs his mistress — someone to prove to him that he’s young and beautiful again, even when he’s not.

All it takes is money.

Cheers!

-Will (“Astra”)

Not every history is a negative one. There have been some successful cultural blending, although unfortunately, there is still a long way to go. The pioneer community i was raised in grew up next to an Indian village. The cross-cultural children made it an exercise to list what the Native and the pioneer cultures gave each other to improve their life styles. They listed, for the Native gifts, their knowledge of the terrain and accompanying fishing, hunting and survival skills, sun glasses against the blinding snow, dog sleds and superior cold weather clothing. From the pioneers, they received technology; the rifle, axe, hammer and saw, and the snow machine so prevalent in rural culture today. They learned about sewing machines and kitchen stoves. They learned to bake fried bread; a delicacy so popular, it became an integrated part of Native foods. This exercise has done much in serving as a bridge between the two cultures. By acknowledging each others contributions, we realize more deeply our equality.

We can’t change the wrongs of the past, but we can change our attitudes about them. We can quit feeling justified in contributing to injustice. We could strive to be more culturally integrated, more understanding. We could acknowledge equality and that everyone has something special, something worthwhile, to share.