Even a ‘brown Christmas’ needs heroes

River Park South

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/12/2023 (877 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I know I am not alone in wondering if 2023 will be looked back on for having a ‘brown’, rather than a white Christmas. If there were two or more centimetres of snow on the ground at 7a.m. on Dec. 25, then white it was. If, in addition, snow fell at some point during the day, that was a meteorologically perfect Christmas. I’d be OK with perfect. I would also be OK with brown but soft snow is falling as I type this, so the result remains to be seen.

Since 1877, Winnipeg has seen just three years with a brown Christmas — 1913, 1939 and 1997. Twenty-six years ago is not that far back, yet I have no memory of that late December without a significant accumulation of the white stuff on the ground. However, if I am being honest, the less snow and bitter cold the better. That said, I am acutely aware of the significant number of people and families who rely on a typical winter season to ensure their jobs and businesses have work to do — clearing and hauling snow, grooming cross-country ski and snowmobile trails, and looking after rinks, ski hills, and toboggan slides.

What is not dependent on the amount of snow is the penchant people have for holiday decorating. From massive inflatables towering over fences, to elaborate light shows, to more simple seasonal efforts, they all make for days and evenings that are a feast for the eyes, filling the heart and soul and reminding us of the myriad of reasons for embracing the season.

It is indeed a season of caring and sharing, fully evident across Winnipeg including River Park South, and in play all year long. Ensuring there is food, clothing, and shelter for those who need it, and places to become well both physically and mentally, is the work of many.

Thank you to those who have collected clothing and food, who have made and delivered hampers, and who check in on, and are available to, those who may be struggling. You are definitely on Santa’s ‘nice’ list. It occurs to me that it was not long ago, during the height of a global pandemic, that there was an intense and prolonged focus of gratitude directed to those who work on the front lines. They deserve special recognition at any time of the year and if you are one of those folks, thank you. Not only are you on the ‘nice’ list, but you are also heroes.