Boycotting the Propaganda

The holidays have arrived, bringing with it way too much food, chocolate and a near torturous amount of time with the family. And then there is the inevitable religious propaganda; from Christmas carols to washing cutlery and crockery on the beach, December brings together all kinds of traditions, most of which are based in religion.

This makes it difficult for the rest of us, because while we may love to get caught up in the festivities that this time of the year brings, we don’t have anything to base it on, but does this really mean that we should skip out on family time, delicious traditional foods and showing our appreciation by buying those we love little (or not so little) presents?

Well, the other day my sister and I were dragged, rather unwillingly, to a carol service. I managed to convince myself it wouldn’t be that bad because I love music, especially when it’s performed live and I’d already been informed that one of the singers had an amazing voice.

Admittedly, the music was good, and the relief I felt when someone brought out a trumpet was unsurpassable. Also, the singer happened to be amazing and her voice reminded me of the likes of Sarah McLachlan. So not all bad then.

I also told myself that it would just be carols and not much preaching.

I couldn’t have been more horrified when the preacher went on for what felt like an age about God, the bible and Jesus, all in Afrikaans.

For two hours I sat there feeling completely out of my depth.

And then, right when I thought that I had wasted a perfectly good evening, when I could have just stayed at home and put some of Sarah’s hits on, some Afrikaans oomie with a ‘Mr McCarthy’ moustache came on stage. Well, knock me over with a feather, this guy could sing. And I don’t mean that semi-pleasurable kind of singing. I mean that goosebumps running up the back of your neck kind of singing.

So not a complete fail of an evening then.

But still, I don’t see why on earth I should have to attend a Christmas carol evening, in order to enjoy Christmas. I mean if it hadn’t been for Mr Goosebumps’ amazing voice that evening would have completely ruined my Christmas spirit. So if I just want to pick a random day and use it to give my super awesome sisterling presents then who are you to tell me that I may not?

I am boycotting religion this Christmas… because I can!