The Magic of a Christmas Tradition Going Extinct

There’s a holiday tradition fading into the background—almost unnoticed by many. But for me, it remains one of the most meaningful gestures of the entire season: the Christmas card.

Not the digital kind.

Not the group text blast.

Not even the “Happy Holidays!” posted on social media as a cute gif.

I’m talking about the real thing—the card chosen with intention, hand-picked from a shelf or specially designed and ordered. The kind that represents you, your family, your sense of humor, your warmth, or your year. The kind that brings a smile on your face knowing it's going to be displayed in someone's home over the holidays.

My favorite holiday tradition has always been sending and receiving Christmas cards because to me, it comes straight from the heart. It takes time—something we all claim we don’t have—to pick out the perfect card. Some people go all-in and design custom photo cards, selecting the very best moments they want to share with their loved ones. Others wander the aisles of a store, flipping through cards until one just clicks. I'm a little bit of both.

Then comes the part that makes it magical: You gather your materials: pen, stamps, address book, stickers for closing the envelope, coffee or drink of choice and cards, then sit down and begin making the magic happen.

Sometimes it’s a signature. Sometimes it’s a tiny handwritten note. The note isn’t even necessary. It’s the act that matters.

This, to me, is one of the purest ways to show love during the holiday season.

I don’t need a gift.

I don’t need a phone call.

And truth be told, I would much rather have a card in the mail than a text message.

A card is special. It’s tangible. It’s thoughtful. And with all the bills and mailers and pre-approved credit offers that come in the mail - every dang day - it makes getting the mail fun, if even for a few weeks. Many people display their cards across mantels, clipped to ribbons, tucked into mirrors, or taped to walls. I personally wrap my door with ribbon and use Christmas clothespins to attach each special card I receive because each one feels like someone reaching out across the miles to say, “You matter to me.”

And here’s the part that always sticks with me: If my dentist’s office can find the time to send a Christmas card…If my vet’s office can send one to my dog…Imagine the joy we could create if everyone took the time to spend the two quarters it costs to mail a card.

Imagine someone walking to their mailbox after a long day of holiday chaos—shopping, wrapping, working, juggling life—and there it is: a simple envelope - often times in red or green - with their name hand-written across the front. They open it, see who it’s from, and for a moment the world pauses.

For a moment, they feel seen.

For a moment, they feel remembered.

For a moment, they feel joy.

That’s the magic. Quiet, old-fashioned, nostalgic Christmas magic. It is one that reminds me if my mom and brings me closer with her memory during the holidays.

A tradition slowly slipping away… But one that still packs more heart into a simple stamped envelope than anything else this season.

Maybe—just maybe—we can help keep it alive. I certainly try season after season.