Sir, – I support John O’Brien’s defence of Christmas cards (Letters, November 29th).
Later this week, I will start to write my Christmas cards. Each year, I enjoy sending a personal message to my friends, family and, especially, those who have made an impact on my life in 2024. Over three or four evenings, I will do this at my leisure. The cards that I send say something of me. I generally select cards that support a local or regional Irish charity that is close to my heart. The chosen card also respects the faith and values of the person to whom it is sent. A brief, relevant, personal message conveys my emotion and sentiment for the recipient.
I enjoy receiving cards but respect those who prefer not to observe the rubric of returning cards.
Sending Christmas cards, I admit, is, sadly, a diminishing currency. In my view, the card is a mirror of value and reflects the best attributes of both the sender and the recipient.
This is not a sterile, clinical engagement. In my experience, it evokes a response bringing out the best in all parties to this vicarious act of very social intercourse.
Cards are good, letters are good, and the carefully considered written word cannot be replaced with flippant and, probably, under considered e-bites.
Happy Christmas to my friends, family and those who have made an impact on my life in 2024. That wish and greeting do not mean that I will not be sending you a card this year! – Yours, etc,
CORMAC MEEHAN,
Bundoran,
Co Donegal.