I get it, I get it. Christmas has come and gone. But what in the world is a Wishmas tree? It’s our family’s unique way of considering others. I began this tradition years ago with our children because this season is all about asking for things for ourselves, right? Thus, I thought of the Wishmas tree to request things for others instead.
It’s a modest tree that we currently keep in the dining room, but when the kids were younger, they cherished it right in the kitchen! It was “almost” as thrilling as their advent calendars. I adorn it with a simple garland—this year’s choice was a bell garland from Michael’s. I bought it last year, but I found some comparable garlands here and here.
Although it wasn’t meant to serve this purpose, it has somewhat become a time capsule for us. Each year, the children have wished for things that connect to what’s happening in the world. I have a senior in high school this year, so you can guess how dearly she hopes for this.
The guidelines are quite straightforward. They must wish for someone or something beyond themselves. The Wishmas tree is an opportunity to think of others. My son may have wished for lower taxes 😉, but he also wished for someone at his workplace to recover. No questions asked. I’m merely pleased to see him considering someone else’s needs.
If you ever feel inspired to have your own Wishmas tree, I hope this offers you some motivation! I store away the cards/ornaments to revisit as they grow older… and somehow can’t remember that we’ve ever had this tradition until I display them. Ugh.
