Christmas celebrations are in full swing. In Singapore’s central business district, one can measure evenings by the number of private events being held in popular bars and restaurants. Across a range of size and types, wide ranging menus and one with strictly bar food, companies and groups reserve and celebrate the season. Three different demographic tags that both differentiate as well as link the celebrations continue to push me towards reflection.
First is the range of dress that is both congruent and in direct contrast with the venue and its participants. One should know that black tie events are not always marked by tuxes, champaign, and glittering dresses. Several recent events with formal as a theme also had a strong minority with iron creased skinny jeans and tropical sun dresses. In a strangely consistent way, casual chains have been filled with people in smart dress uniforms; consistent with a wow factor that provided a stark commentary on the setting they found themselves in.
Second, there does not appear to be any correlation between dress, location, and behavior. Early on, some of the most casual places were visibly boring. Again, almost in symmetry, formal places seem to be deeply into a holiday spirit of celebration. Location, decorum, and dress seemingly had no correlation with being real.
In every situation, the longer the evening went on the louder the party seemed to get. The one exception was the parties that ended early, many visibly due to the factors just noted. In the main, the volume of the parties was directly correlated with time and everything that goes with a party and time. It is fun to watch the watchers. If I could put words in the usual reaction it would be this. “‘They’re full of hot air, loudmouths disturbing the peace.’ (Psalm 73.9) It is also Christmas, so let us celebrate with them!”
Celebrations are short stories that tell more that the characters involve realize. Sometimes we finish them. Others we put down before the end. I hope my stories tell of joy, compassion, and hope for all.
