Word of Beak: Holiday spirit is quick to dissipate

With Christmas now over, any traces of the holiday are moved to the clearance section, being cleaned up from beneath the Christmas tree, or left to cling to the edges of houses and windows for just one more day.

Leftovers sit in the fridge dreaming of their reheated redemption, and people begin flocking to the stores to make returns and exchanges for one reason or another.

Students continue to make the most of their break and sleep half the day away if they can.

What happened to the magic of the season? Must it end so strictly after the 25th of December has passed?

Rushing to get the best candy and decorations for next year left at 50 percent off, most people pay no attention to the fact that radio stations have completely stopped playing the music that sets the mood of the season, or if they do, they are grateful that their music has returned to normal.

People seem relieved that they no longer have to don the facade of a jovial, caring person for the holidays. All etiquette taken down from the top shelf for family has been, once again, tossed to the side, and the post-holiday frustrations take over.

This is passed on to anyone in a close proximity, creating an ever extending chain of frustrated people just a day after a holiday that brings people together and instills positive feelings in all celebrators.

With a little focus and effort, it is possible to fend off the post-holiday "hum-bugs". It is not an easy task, but it is possible. One must remember that there is nothing to stress about. Anything that had to be done is done, and anything that could have been done better can be changed for next year.

Take what time that is left in this year to reflect and prepare for 2013. If stress and frustrations begin to overwhelm you, take a deep breath, purchase some candy at half price and remember that we survived the Mayans apocalypse prediction.

Before New Year's resolutions are set, why not make the decision to continue the holiday spirit through the new year, and not take a few days break in between.

It will make the end of the year just as enjoyable as I hope the beginning will be for all.