The 15 School Days of Christmas: COVID can’t be allowed to ruin Christmas

Amid the catastrophic dumpster fire of 2020, a joyous, heartwarming holiday season spent with family and friends is more vital than ever before. Though some are hesitant or unable to physically congregate with loved ones, most Americans need to create authentic, empowering Christmas spirit and get a needed psychological uplift.

Of course, 2020 has delivered enough cataclysmic events for an entire decade: a global pandemic; nationwide rioting; a coin shortage; the appearance of murder hornets; a dramatic economic recession; a dizzying election cycle, and the death of Mr. Peanut have driven many to the brink of insanity. Thus, the continuation of holiday traditions, however altered by unprecedented circumstances, is integral to the preservation of psychological health. 

Unfortunately, practically every holiday and major event scheduled for celebration this year — with the exception of the Groundhog Day and the Super Bowl, which occurred on the same day — have been sacked. 

Without city-subsidized pyrotechnic displays, suburbanites launched dangerous professional-grade fireworks from their homes on Independence Day. On Halloween, worried homeowners exchanged Kit-Kats and Reese’s cups with extendable metal claws. With health officials advising against large gatherings, many across the country took a pass on Turkey Day festivities. 

After the emotional and psychological rigors of a year gone mad, participation in enthusiastic and fulfilling Christmas activities is paramount. 

Although revelers may reasonably comply with COVID-19 protocols and restrictions, we need to pursue creative ways to celebrate the holidays joyously and sensibly, such as physically seeing friends and family members of low risk and having Christmas festivities at households with only these immediate relatives. If preferred, such festivities may also be shared online with people who are of high risk. 

Regardless, if we’re to survive with sane minds, Christmas 2020 cannot be completely effaced from existence.