Yes, I get it. Christmas has come and gone. But what exactly is a Wishmas tree? It’s our family’s unique approach to considering others. I initiated this tradition years back with our children because the season often centers around requesting things for ourselves, don’t you think? Hence, I created the Wishmas tree to encourage asking for things for others instead.
It’s a modest tree that now resides in our dining room, but when the kids were younger, they adored having it in the kitchen! It was “almost” as thrilling as their advent calendars. This year, I dressed it with a simple garland—a bell garland from Michael’s, which I bought last year. However, I discovered similar garlands available here and here.
Though it wasn’t designed for this purpose, it has turned into a bit of a time capsule for us. Each year, the children express wishes that reflect the happenings in the world around them. Since I have a high school senior this year, you can imagine the extent of her wishes.
The guidelines are rather straightforward. They must wish for someone or something beyond their own desires. The Wishmas tree serves as a moment to think of others. My son might have wished for reduced taxes 😉, but he also wished for recovery for a coworker. No questions posed. I just feel glad to see him focusing on someone else’s needs.
If you ever decide to create your own Wishmas tree, I hope this inspires you! I keep the cards/ornaments tucked away to revisit as they grow older…and somehow can’t recall that we’ve ever engaged in this tradition until I reveal them. Ugh.
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**The Christmas Wishmas Tree: Spreading Holiday Cheer**
The holiday season is a time of joy, generosity, and togetherness. It’s a season that brings families and communities closer, fostering a spirit of giving and gratitude. Among the many traditions that light up this festive time, a unique and heartwarming concept has been gaining popularity: the Christmas Wishmas Tree. This special tree is not just a decorative centerpiece but a beacon of hope, kindness, and connection, spreading holiday cheer in ways that resonate deeply with people of all ages.
### What Is the Christmas Wishmas Tree?
The Christmas Wishmas Tree is a creative twist on the traditional Christmas tree, designed to inspire acts of kindness and fulfill wishes during the holiday season. Unlike a regular tree adorned solely with ornaments, lights, and tinsel, the Wishmas Tree is decorated with handwritten wishes, messages of gratitude, or pledges of goodwill. These wishes can come from individuals, families, or even entire communities, creating a shared experience that embodies the true spirit of Christmas.
The concept is simple yet powerful: people write down their wishes—whether for themselves, their loved ones, or the world at large—on decorative tags, cards, or ornaments, and hang them on the tree. Others who visit the tree can read these wishes and, if they feel inspired, take action to help fulfill them. It’s a beautiful way to connect people, encourage empathy, and spread joy during the holiday season.
### The Origins of the Wishmas Tree
While the exact origins of the Wishmas Tree are unclear, the idea is thought to have evolved from various cultural traditions that emphasize the importance of giving and sharing during the holidays. In Japan, for example, the Tanabata Festival features a similar practice where people write wishes on colorful strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches. In Western cultures, the concept of “giving trees” has long been associated with charitable efforts during Christmas, where trees are decorated with tags listing items needed by those in need.
The Wishmas Tree combines these traditions into a modern, inclusive practice that can be adapted to fit any community or household. It’s a versatile idea that can be as simple or elaborate as you want, making it accessible to everyone.
### How to Create Your Own Wishmas Tree
Creating a Christmas Wishmas Tree is a fun and meaningful activity that can involve the whole family, workplace, or community. Here’s how to get started:
1. **Choose Your Tree**: You can use a traditional Christmas tree, an artificial tree, or even a DIY tree made from branches, wood, or other materials. The focus is less on the tree itself and more on what it represents.
2. **Prepare the Wish Tags**: Provide materials for people to write their wishes, such as paper ornaments, tags, or cards. You can make them festive by using colorful paper, glitter, or ribbons.
3. **Set Up a Wish Station**: Place a table near the tree with pens, markers, and the wish tags. Include a sign explaining the purpose of the tree and inviting people to participate.
4. **Encourage Participation**: Spread the word about your Wishmas Tree through social media, community boards, or word of mouth. Encourage people to write their wishes and read others’ wishes.
5. **Act on the Wishes**: If possible, organize efforts to fulfill some of the wishes. For example, if someone wishes for warm clothes for the winter, you could coordinate a clothing drive. Even small gestures, like sending a kind note to someone who wishes for encouragement, can make a big difference.
6. **Celebrate the Impact**: Share stories about wishes that were fulfilled or acts of kindness inspired by the tree. This can motivate others to get involved and keep the spirit of the Wishmas Tree alive.
### The Impact of the Wishmas Tree
The Christmas Wishmas Tree has the power to transform the holiday season into something truly magical. Here are just a few ways it spreads holiday cheer:
– **Fostering Connection**: In a world where people often feel disconnected, the Wishmas Tree brings individuals together. It creates a sense of community and reminds us that we’re all part of something bigger.
– **Encouraging Generosity**: By reading others’ wishes, people are inspired to give back, whether through time, resources, or simple acts of kindness.
– **Promoting Gratitude**: Writing down wishes or messages of thanks encourages reflection on what truly matters, helping people appreciate the blessings in their lives.
– **Spreading Joy**: The act of fulfilling someone’s wish or seeing your own wish come true brings immense joy, creating a ripple effect of positivity.
### Ideas for Different Settings
The beauty of the Wishmas Tree is its adaptability. Here are some ideas for how it can be used in different settings:
– **At Home**: Families can use the Wishmas Tree to share their hopes and dreams for the coming year.
