Dress up

Photo of a giant Santa Claus statue erected on the Federal Hall building in Adelaide, an annual tradition.

Merrily goodbye
farewelling the year gone by—
depressed Santa Claus.

Preoccupied

photo of a security worker looking at his phone, while ahead of him, a Christmas light show plays on a large building

We consider life
gazing deep into our phones
while Santa dances

Ready

photo of a Christmas tree made of native plants and flowers, at the Perth airport
Made from native Australian bush and flowers.

Prompt and well prepared:
airports for Christmas decor;
unlike scheduled flights.

Christmas

Photo of the Adelaide Town hall, with a giant red bow on its facade
Adelaide Town Hall, a concert venue

Town hall flaunts a bow,
welcoming concert goers,
and costumed santas.

Christmas Day

A day of sharing

feasting, commemorating

for those who have all

another day on the street

for those who have none at all


I enjoy the holiday season—not because of the bells and whistles, but because it’s the only time of year I spend with my parents for their sake. Christmas Day is my dad’s birthday, and four days ago was my mother’s. And despite all the differences we have, despite our irritating tendencies towards each other, we still come together. Sometimes it’s more out of duty than love, but we’re there for each other nevertheless.

But not everyone’s like that. This is still just another day for countless of people in our world—first, second, third.

While most of us spend our day with friends and family, some spend it with those who have nothing. It’s important to recognise them, but most important—to sustain well beyond this one day.

I don’t know what Christmas is all about, but I sure as hell know that it’s not about being philanthropic one day and impervious for the rest of the year.

Cheers,
N