Editor’s Perspective: 13 December issue

“One would give generous alms if one had the eyes to see the beauty of a cupped receiving hand”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

It seems despite the years disappearing before our very eyes, what has endured the passing of time is the sense of anticipation for the annual pilgrimage to St Nick. In fact, my own eager excitement ahead of the forthcoming silly season has further strengthened over time.

For me personally, this has been more evident since having children. There’s something pretty special about seeing their faces light up with delight, and not just when it comes to opening up presents! Children derive so much joy from the act of giving.

Gift giving is a custom that can be found in all cultures and evidence of its existence dates back to prehistoric cultures; the symbolic giving and receiving of gifts being the social glue that makes possible the friendships, loyalties, alliances and coalitions upon which all human social organisations, ultimately rest.

Let us not forget however, the true beauty of Christmas – the reunification of scattered family and friends, the additional time to do so with annual work breaks, the opportunity to provide a physical imitation of one’s love and also a reminder of the importance of all of the above. After all, according to Peg Bracken, “Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas”.

On behalf of the entire team at Metropol, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Metropol will be back with you on 17 January, ready to embrace all of the wonders that await in 2019.