Tag Archives: Boxing Day

Commentary, Happy Holidays!, musings, nature, Photography

Boxing Day Views

36 Comments

In Canada, today is Boxing Day. It has nothing to do with sport but rather with the idea of “boxing up” the leftovers from Christmas feasting (including unwanted presents) to give to those less fortunate. I was raised with the notion that Boxing Day is for providing volunteer service (I was allowed to choose – and I always chose the SPCA – but I wasn’t allowed to skip it); however, I think that that philosophy has long since disappeared.

I know this photo looks early spring-like, but it was taken – as was this entire series of pictures – on December 23. It was a gorgeous day.

Perhaps we ought to try to bring back Boxing Day volunteerism or other forms of giving. I am tired of the Boxing Day sales that have now morphed into “boxing week” sales – whatever those are, I’m sure you’re really not going to save anything – that are bringing into disrepute a day that used to be about selflessness and giving.

Considering the narcissistic spending focus at this time of year – something that is industriously promoted by all businesses – a little required volunteerism might go a long way to helping a great many people, including those that do the volunteering.

Food for thought.

I hope you enjoy these Boxing Day views. 🙂

Commentary, Happy Holidays!, musings, nature, Photography

Boxing Day

39 Comments

Here in Canada it’s Boxing Day. It has nothing to do with boxing gloves or rings but rather with an old tradition that came down to us from the U.K. and through our Commonwealth ties to that country.

On Boxing Day, you are supposed to box up the leftovers from your Christmas meal along with presents you don’t want or other items you no longer require and give them to those who are struggling. As a small child, I remember vestiges of this old tradition when my parents made sure there was a box of goodies to give away to a family we knew. Another aspect of the day was to provide time to a charity.

The charitable origins of Boxing Day now seem to be completely lost in an overload of after-Christmas sales that are akin to a shopping orgy, mostly for things many of us probably don’t need.

Too bad. A little selfless charity is a good thing, and especially in this tight economy. I won’t be spending any money today, but maybe some time.

Happy Boxing Day.