This morning I received an email about an "infographic" created by MoneySupermarket.com about the 'Changing Face' of Halloween.
I found the information quite fascinating and it got me thinking about the debate about the "Commercialisation of Christmas" and whether that could now be asked about Halloween as well.
My husband and I consider ourselves to be Pagan. So we are inherently aware of the deeper significance of this date in the Wheel of the Year. But that doesn't stop us from enjoying the fun and festivities that can be found in decorating the house with spooks and ghouls, dressing up and buying sweets to give to the Trick-or-Treaters. We think those are all fun aspects of the modern Halloween and that enjoying life is important, so long as it is within our budget and doesn't harm anyone.
The same can be said about Christmas. I may consider myself to be Pagan, but I also read my Bible and take inspiration and comfort from this. I do not believe that one must negate the other. I am becoming more and more able to celebrate both Yule and Christmas and cherish what they mean to me. A friend once asked me, many years ago, what Christmas meant to be as a 'non-Christian'. My reply was that it was about spending time with those you love, showing them you care by treating them with good company and little gifts. It is about celebrating light during the dark months, and celebrating the gifts that family can bring. And that includes decorating the house, writing Christmas cards, buying and making presents and eating lots of yummy food. We could have a simpler Christmas, but just because we buy a few luxuries doesn't mean we lose the essence of the celebration.
That's not to say that I think the entire commercialisation of the event is a good thing. I would quite like to start seeing Christmas decorations and promotions during Advent only. I don't want Christmas music blaring out as I do my shopping at the end of October. That does detract from the special feeling that comes from a celebration that lasts for one month only, rather than three!! And I hope Halloween never follows that trend and ends up being advertised in the middle of July...
But I see no harm in this 'Changing Face' of our celebrations. In fact, I find it quite fascinating how things change and how quickly it can happen. Which is why I have chosen to share the "Infogaphic" with you all. I'd love to hear you thoughts...
Image source: MoneySupermarket;
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