THE WAG

Have you, at times found the Holiday season and the commercialization of Christmas and other “Holidays” a burden? Here is a short piece about Pinky’s experience. Maybe it will apply.

THE WAG

Pinky wondered, where was the wag—that clever humorist who is inside him and could bring a laugh and lightness to any situation? Except, not now. He felt as waggish as a stab in the eye. He pushed through the aisles of Costco, like old glue, stuck in the tube, lost in the tight-faced Christmas crowd that seemed to share his misery. How could it be otherwise given the state of the world? He hated Christmas. It was a lie. Robotic, Nazi lock-step stiffened his legs, controlled by the events of the day. As was his custom, Pinky was bound and determined to buy presents for his loved ones, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren sprinkled across the globe. It was more than he could bear, the yearly pain of delving into the stores and the Amazon pile of possibilities. and he felt the weight of it all in his neck and shoulders where all burdens are held. It penetrated from there into his heart. He wanted to be seen as a good family elder, one who is there for all of his tribe. It was winter, not a season for wild pursuits. Even in Hawaii where the danger of snowstorms and other weather mishaps was low, it was the time of the year to be quiet and take time to go within.

inside where the winter days are short, dark and stormy

inside where the winter nights are long, dark and still

inside, where secrets die

inside where answers lie

But how could he go within when he was without? Outside his body, searching for gifts that would be tossed aside without a thought minutes after they received them. Would the gifts make even an iota of difference? Would their absence be missed? Through the gloom, he stopped and closed his eyes. He took a few long breaths. The tumult of Costco subsided. An idea began to form. Why not visit them instead? Bring gifts. Not now, but during the year. His mind released its dreadful grip. He could not solve the issues of the world, or his family. But he could find the stillness that is in himself. The sanctuary, the humor. Energy began in his belly. It moved toward his heart and Pinky began to laugh. Before he knew it people around him began to smile. Some a little embarrassed, but many simply caught his unbounded humor. He could not stop laughing and did not want to. Soon people were hugging one another and talking as if they knew one another and wishing Holiday greetings. The mood of the entire store changed and Pinky, for the first time in many years, felt Christmas.