If you say that to anyone during any other season, you might get some puzzled looks. I don’t know the specific origin of the word, but happy takes precedence with so many other holidays. I am assuming with the traditional gifting of cards depicting all the wonderfully celebratory activities celebrated together during this holiday: ice skating, caroling around the neighborhood, or cutting down a Christmas tree, merry was not used in the place of happy for much of any behavior. The word is considered to be old-fashioned, as it made its appearance in the English language more than a couple hundred years ago in this country. Yet, performing “random acts of kindness” throughout the year and creating off-holiday merriment is one of the popular trends of modern culture.
Some say that the popularity of doing nice things for strangers throughout the year has continued for so many years now because of the hard times faced by everyone. It even extended to friends and family and only appeared to be somewhat random. There are always so many good causes that get touted during the holiday season, that is hard to decide which ones need the help the most.
It is near to impossible to discern the neediest cases, so after talking to my most generous friends, I decided to have myself an even “merrier” season by continuing to perform small acts of not-so-random kindnesses at the same time. The word small is relative of course, as it depends on how much can actually spare. One might think that the financial stresses and strains brought about this season might dampen a true year-round celebratory spirit, yet it need not. It can be a gift of time, when most of us have little extra to share or it can be a gift of doing something that we all assume everyone can do for themselves. One doesn’t have to be elderly or disabled to merit a get-out-of cleaning coupon or other mundane household task.
Add the words “and bright” to “merry” and it illuminates the whole concept of giving to others year-round. Bright is another word that makes us feel good about life, as one of the best descriptions I heard years ago was comparing a child to a “bright penny.” Pennies have been so devalued over the years that it may be hard to fathom that phrase as particularly complimentary. Yet, as a lover of old-timey expressions, this one is by far my own particular favorite. The best policy is not to turn away from any compliments any time of the year. So take it to heart when someone says “Have yourself a merry and bright…” I know I will.
By DOLLY VISCARDI – Special to the Herald Times
