Ah, Christmas! The season of lights, joy, and the chime of jingle bells. But wait, let’s not forget the tradition of writing that grown-up Christmas list. Picture this: today’s adult wish lists have shifted from the days of yore. No longer are we solely focused on material desires, like the latest gadget or shiny new car. Instead, we wish for it all to be different: societal changes and ideological reforms, especially coming from those who often say they dream of broader horizons.
The grown-up Christmas list, a concept famously popularized by Amy Grant's song back in the early '90s, touches on issues the world has grappled with endlessly. Peace on Earth, an end to hunger, and equality for all are often wished for. Yet as we pen our lists each year, do we genuinely mean it, or is it just fantastical dreaming?
Here’s where the rubber meets the road: it’s perplexing how serious some folks get with their lists. They on one hand demand peace, but on the other, advocate for ideologies that divide. Maybe the bullet point they need is "less hypocrisy". Perhaps if more humoured a balanced approach to policies, we might inch closer to these utopian dreams.
So, what is a grown-up's Christmas list in 2023 all about? Let's get into it with the top 10 items that are both tongue-in-cheek and tantalizingly relevant.
Common Sense Policies
A top request should be a resurgence of common-sense policies. Those that cater not just to the niche but to the nation. Instead of policies that silo us into echo chambers of unrealistic demands, how about focusing on those that better the broader public? Imagine a world where we prioritize safety over symbolism.Energy Independence
Fuel prices put a damper on everything. So, let’s put 'energy independence' high up on that wish list. True independence means drilling and using the resources we have at our disposal instead of relying on others. If Santa can deliver clean coal this year, let’s accept it. After all, isn’t Christmas about warmth and security?The Art of Debate
Bring back the art of civil discourse. This means respecting opposing views and engaging in debates without the need for censorship. The greatest gift would be more conversations and fewer echo chambers, which tend to amplify the noise but soften the mind.Balanced Budgets
Request the return of fiscal responsibility as you hang your stocking. Our economy could surely be healthier if we curb our instinct to spend excessively, particularly on initiatives yielding little public benefit. A balanced budget would be my personal Christmas miracle.Support for Law Enforcement
On our lists, gratitude for those who keep us safe should never be overlooked. In 2023, let’s wish for greater support of law enforcement. They face challenges with valor, ensuring the rest of us can sleep peacefully, although some would have us believe otherwise.Educational Reform
How about we wish for an education system that prioritizes learning over political indoctrination? Let’s hope for curricula that emphasize critical thinking rather than embracing ideological bias. This way, the next generation will be equipped with the real-world skills they need.Secure Borders
Place a request for secure borders on that list. A nation needs to know who it’s inviting in its doors. Just like you wouldn’t let a stranger wander into your living room on Christmas Day without invitation, a country should protect its sovereignty just as sternly.Term Limits
Ever wondered why some politicians overstayed their welcome? If your wish list is missing term limits, now’s the time to jot it down. Fresh perspectives prevent stagnation and ambition from turning stale. Too many career politicians are celebrated like they’re Santa when they’re more akin to Grinch.Freedom of Speech
Let's tack on an unyielding demand for freedom of speech. The right to express oneself openly without fear of backlash or cancellation is a gift all should cherish. Those who seek to silence dissenting voices should receive coal.A True Merriment of Traditions
Let’s advocate for a Christmas that celebrates traditions — some might call it old-fashioned, but they’re really timeless. A harmony of reverence and joy, where traditions are cherished, not ridiculed.
As the holidays come bustling in, and stockings get stuffed, consider what would genuinely make your grown-up Christmas list impactful this year. Real change doesn’t glisten like holiday ornaments; it’s ushered in by thoughtful actions and choices.
How does one achieve peace and goodwill on Earth if we’re not willing to embrace differing ideas and seek common ground? A Christmas wish list that thoughtfully contemplates this is a step in the right direction.