The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy and happiness, but for me, it’s often overshadowed by the obligation to send and receive Christmas cards. Hate Christmas cards might sound harsh, but it’s a sentiment that I know is shared by many.
For starters, the sheer number of cards that need to be sent out can be overwhelming. It’s not just close family and friends who expect a card, but also distant relatives, coworkers, and acquaintances. Before you know it, you’re spending hours addressing envelopes and writing out generic messages just to fulfill a social expectation.
It’s not just the quantity of cards I dislike, but also the quality. Many cards are mass-produced and lack any personal touch. It’s difficult to feel genuinely appreciated or connected to the sender when the card could have been sent to anyone. It feels like an empty gesture, and while I know the intent behind it is good, it doesn’t resonate with me.
Another issue with Christmas cards is their environmental impact. The amount of paper and resources used to create and send out cards every year is staggering. It’s a shame to contribute to the deforestation and pollution of our planet in the name of holiday tradition.
Furthermore, it’s a common practice to display received cards around the house during the season. While I understand the sentiment, it can quickly become cluttered and unsightly. It’s just another task to add to an already full to-do list, having to find a place to display the cards in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
Lastly, there’s the issue of financial cost. Between buying the cards, paying for postage, and the added expense of family photos or personalized designs, the cost of sending Christmas cards can add up quickly. It’s a burden on those already struggling financially or those who would rather spend their money on more meaningful gifts or experiences.
I don’t argue that Christmas cards can have their place – a personal, hand-written note to someone you care about can be a beautiful expression of love. But when it comes to the generic, impersonal, and obligatory nature of Christmas cards, it’s hard to get behind them.
Instead, I suggest finding other ways to show appreciation and love during the holiday season. Simple gestures like a phone call, text message, or even a homemade treat can mean just as much or more than a store-bought card.
In the end, everyone celebrates the holiday season differently and has their own traditions. To those who love Christmas cards, I understand and respect your choice. But as for me, I hate Christmas cards and see no joy in participating in a tradition that feels like it’s lost its heart.