Do you know Mr. bricklebaum? He is practically the only friend of the Grinch, the green character from the story “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” by Dr. seuss. The Grinch hates Christmas. Mr. Bricklebaum,conversely,loves the festival and excessively decorates his house with jewelry and fairy lights. I’m like Mr. Bricklebaum.
I don’t really care about year-round decorations. Yes,it looks good when there is a bouquet of flowers here and there on the table or a wreath hanging on a door.But these clay figures or even dolls on sofas scattered everywhere are a nightmare. Except at Christmas – then I become an Othre decoration.
Lights in front of the door, around the door and windows: for some too many, for me just right
For me, Advent can hardly start early enough. When it gets a little colder outside, the boxes with Christmas decorations are brought out. and on Sunday of the Dead the windows and the hedge in front of the house are decorated with fairy lights. it should turn on directly from Monday.
I would start first, immediately after Halloweenjust like in America. But there are probably stricter Christians in berlin. One year the cord on a string of lights was cut cleanly when it was already lit before Dead Sunday.
There’s still room for more Christmas decorations next year
But I can let off steam in our apartment. Reindeers, Santa Claus figures, Christmas trees, nutcrackers, illuminated houses: everything finds its place in wardrobes, chests of drawers and wherever there is space. In the middle there are always fir branches: once I saw it with colleagues and I immediately took it.
This year we also have two arrangements for Advent. A classic one in the living room, a more modern one in the dining room. There must be candlelight, for me it is indeed part of the Christmas period.
However, the candles on the Christmas tree remain artificial or this year they will be replaced by chains with hundreds of small LED lights. The tree could also be up in early December. This year I wanted to try an artificial fir, but it went back to the manufacturer. Too ugly. Now a real fir tree returns to the house, naturally richly decorated.
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A few days ago I escalated things with Temu. That Chinese online store everyone complains about.Of course my daughter complained directly to my wife. “Dad ordered the Christmas decorations from Temu!” But there are things I have never seen before in German shops. Or have you ever heard of door coverings with Christmas motifs? I have to have it. 18 pieces ended up in the cart.
Will things arrive from China in time for the festival? It might be tight. But, hey, it doesn’t matter. After all, next year it will be Christmas again.
How can we create a more inclusive environment for diverse holiday experiences?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Holiday Enthusiast Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into the heart of holiday spirit, or perhaps the lack thereof, with a special focus on our friend Mr. Bricklebaum from Dr. Seuss‘s beloved tale, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Joining us is Dr. Emily Hart, a cultural psychologist specializing in festive behaviors. Welcome, Emily!
Dr. Hart: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the dynamics of festive enjoyment, especially through the lens of Mr.bricklebaum and the Grinch.
Editor: Let’s start with Mr. Bricklebaum. He represents an almost overwhelming love for Christmas, with decorations covering every inch of his home. Why do you think some people are driven to celebrate holidays so extravagantly?
Dr. Hart: Great question! People like Mr. Bricklebaum frequently enough see celebrations as a way to express joy and create a sense of community. For them, the decorations are not just about aesthetics; they represent warmth, nostalgia, and the bonds shared with family and friends. It’s an external manifestation of their internal happiness.
Editor: On the flip side, we have the Grinch, who despises Christmas and everything that comes with it. What psychological factors might contribute to a person’s aversion to holiday celebrations?
Dr. Hart: A distaste for holidays could stem from various experiences, such as past traumas associated with festive times, feelings of isolation, or even just a strong personal preference for minimalism. For the Grinch, perhaps it was a combination of being an outsider and his innate cynicism. His character invites reflection on how social pressures can sometimes lead to negative feelings during festive seasons.
Editor: That’s fascinating. Comparing mr. Bricklebaum’s joy with the Grinch’s disdain also highlights the spectrum of holiday experiences. How can we better understand and respect these differing perspectives during the holiday season?
dr. Hart: Absolutely! It’s crucial to recognize that not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for holidays. Encouraging open conversations about these feelings can definitely help foster understanding and empathy. For example, if you have a mr.bricklebaum in your life, it might be valuable to celebrate their joy without imposing those expectations on someone who’s more like the grinch.
Editor: So, it’s about finding a balance?
dr. Hart: Exactly. Finding that middle ground allows interactions that are inclusive and respectful, creating a more harmonious environment. Perhaps we can learn something from both characters—it’s okay to decorate exuberantly but also okay to enjoy a quiet holiday without the pomp and circumstance.
Editor: As we wrap up, what advice would you give to someone struggling to connect with holiday spirit, either like the Grinch or someone feeling overwhelmed like Mr. Bricklebaum?
Dr. Hart: I would suggest focusing on what brings you joy individually. If decorations feel burdensome, perhaps try to find simple, meaningful traditions that resonate with you. Alternatively, if you love the celebration like Mr. Bricklebaum, involve those around you in a way that invites them in—without overwhelming them. Personal joy during this season is key, whether it’s through elaborate decorations or quiet moments.
Editor: That seems like perfect advice! Thank you, dr. Hart, for sharing your insights into the complexities of holiday feelings, and for helping us appreciate both sides of the festive spectrum.
Dr.Hart: Thank you for having me! I hope everyone can enjoy their holidays in a way that feels right for them,whether they’re all in like Mr. Bricklebaum or preferring a more subdued approach like the Grinch. Happy holidays!
Editor: Happy holidays to you as well! And to our readers,wherever you find yourself on the festive spectrum,may the season bring you peace and joy.