Darina Allen: How do we keep the magic of Christmas alive

HOW do we keep the magic of Christmas alive at a time in history when we are all being mercilessly manipulated by commercial interests. 

Resentment is mounting, particularly among Mná na hÉireann, the mothers, grandmothers, aunties who are feeling intense pressure to deliver on the unrealistic expectations built up by constant advertising and clever marketing.

Several people recently told me that they have to resist the urge to run and hide “until it’s all over” and what they are really looking forward to most is that delicious moment after Christmas when they can punch the air and say, Hooray — thank goodness that’s over for another year, how sad is that, but hardly surprising that we feel completely frazzled instead of festive.