It is 10 days before Christmas. I sit here feeling very ‘humbug-ish.’ I am thoroughly frustrated by the sad fact that the postal system here in Canada has been and IS STILL on strike after four weeks or so.
Unacceptable. Yes, I realize there are important matters at hand. Yes, I know each side says they can’t do without certain conditions, but honestly, I’m so over it.
‘Twas the night before Christmas and all the mailboxes were silent
I feel for the small businesses who are scrambling to find alternative shipping choices that don’t break the bank. And rural locations in Canada that don’t have any other choices available.
But what really tipped the mail scales for me was when I read a recent headline (source shall not be named) that quoted a Union member saying that “Santa sides with us.” I can’t even.
And if that wasn’t bad enough, there was an unofficial invitation made to kids to come to the picket line and bring their letters. Really? How would Santa really feel about children going to a picket line?!
Spider and web take over my mailbox
This is the first year in my snail mail loving life that I have not sent out Christmas cards. And I’m grouchy about it.
A local spider has taken up residence in and on the side of my mailbox. Perfect place as no longer any opening or closing of the lid, perfectly undisturbed. I’ve decided to let her spin her web and see how it goes while there is no mail delivery.
At first glance the absence of Christmas cards doesn’t mean much. Maybe you never sent them anyway.
For me, the mail strike has really shown how much sending cards at this time of year means. A little connection point with family and friends, near and far. It feels like you’ve chatted, gotten updates on your loved ones and wished them a Merry Christmas.
It delights both the sender and those that receive. Christmas cards spread joy.
So….in lieu of physical Christmas cards this year….I wish you wonderful holidays. And can we please end this strike now!
Great post, I so enjoy your upbeat perspective, Barb. P.S. It’s extraordinary that the spider is hard at work during the winter!
I agree. I stand with the workers but NOT the timing. They could have gone on strike in the summer so as not to ruin Christmas for so many people or destroy the small businesses they like to say they support. This just leaves a bad taste in everyone’s mouths.
I’m thinking the choice of timing was most likely strategic, hoping the impact would help in negotiations. Sure does leave a bad taste for sure! I appreciate you reading and sharing your thoughts.
I’m sorry. I have sent a couple of my Christmas cards to Canada, not realising that the strike is still ongoing. Maybe they arrive one day (although I don’t think so).
Actually, I understand you: we have no strike here but , for some reason I don’t understand (and the postal service doesn’t explain), I haven’t been mailless during more than a month. I made two complains on 9 December (https://mailadventures.blogspot.com/2024/12/drama.html), and suddenly some delayed letters appeared the following day.
However, any Christmas card or letter has appeared, and I don’t think those will do. At least, before another month. I am luckier, though, because my Christmas mail is slowly reaching its recipients.
When the strike is over, you can send non-Christmas mail… People will be happy to get news by snail mail anyway!
Hi Eva, the strike is officially done now…too late for Christmas cards though unless you are fine with late arrival. Thanks for keeping the love of snail mail alive.
I’m with you Barb! I too am feeling grouchy about not sending nor receiving cards this year. I miss receiving the hand written wishes and the photos of the families whom I don’t see because of distance. I miss signing my cards with love, sealing them with stickers and taking a gift bag full of cards to the post office. It’s been a part of my Christmas traditions for years and years. You’re right, it’s a point of connection, and I didn’t realize how much I would miss it💌
Bah-humbug I say! I didn’t realize how much it meant to me too. Even though strike now done, I still won’t send as Christmas cards don’t seem the same in February (hee, hee, not being overly optimist am, I?). I love how you have described what sending cards means to you each holiday season. Thanks for taking the time to share here.
I’m so very sad *especially* for you since mail is such an integral and enjoyable part of your day to day. I agree with all the parts of your post ….. kid at the picket line, mail alternatives for folks, connecting with friends and relatives……I had taken an approximate 5-year break (not intentionally – just happened) from sending Christmas cards/letters and didn’t realize how much I missed the whole process. We know getting mail (and sending it) is such an enjoyable process. I really hope the strike concludes soon. If I was even within driving distance of you, I would hand deliver your card. In the meantime, sending Happy Holiday greetings until your letter/card arrives in real life! Hugs!!!
Hey there Melanine, update! The strike officially ended this Tuesday, Dec 17th! Canada Post accepting new mail as of 19th! Too little too late in my mind, Christmas will come and go before cards get delivered. Nevertheless, great news for sure!! Not sure how all the kids sending letters to Santa will fare… He is a man of magic though….talk soon and Merry Christmas!
I agree 100 percent! I can’t remember a time when I did not send and receive Christmas cards and the strike action at this time of the year seems selfish and irresponsible. PLUS they are affecting the livelihoods of so many people.
Unbelievable, right Elinor! Good news this week about strike coming to a close, but too late in my mind, at least as it relates to Christmas mail. I hope everyone survives the impact of this strike. ugh.