Probably motivated by a desire to win voters’ support, one of the political groups reproached the city authorities for decorating the market square and adjoining streets before last year’s Christmas, putting up a Christmas tree in front of the town hall and broadcasting carols through loudspeakers.
The author of this accusation, incomprehensible to me (and probably to most Readers) (about extravagance?!) apparently had no more sensible electoral arguments “at hand,” and certainly did not see how much joy decorating, for example, the town’s Christmas tree brought to the children from the kindergartens. In my opinion, and that of many passers-by commenting on last year’s city decorations, it was finally s o m e t h i n g.
I write “something” because, to me, compared with the decorations of “Western” streets and shops, it was still a very, very modest display. Piłsudski Square was particularly meagre, and the commercial establishments looked similarly poor, especially the supermarket or the “Bolko” department store. My appeal last year went unanswered, both among individual merchants and the Bolesławiec Merchants’ Association itself.
Surely the Association can afford to announce a competition for the festive decoration of a shop. The main prize could be, for example, a trip to fantastically decorated pre-Christmas or pre-New Year’s Eve Berlin, or at least to nearby Goerlitz.
And, in any case, what are we ashamed or afraid of when we avoid richer decorations—or any decorations at all? Can’t we afford a few illuminated bulbs, or do we simply not care about displaying our goods more attractively? Let us finally move toward that still unattainable Europe and not be afraid to transplant onto our own soil what is good, beautiful and capable of inspiring admiration.
Returning to last year’s holidays: I do not know whether this year Mrs Teresa Skorupa will be able to repeat such a praiseworthy and humane gesture as a Christmas Eve supper for the less well-off. I would remind Readers that two years ago the same Mrs Teresa gave beautiful and expensive presents to the children from the Saint Joseph Children’s Home, while also arranging a tasty refreshment for them at a Christmas-tree party.
Perhaps another restaurant (wholesaler, company, business, shop) will take over the “baton” from Mrs Teresa this year?
My concerns about the financial capacity of the “Kasztelańska” restaurant stem from the fact that, compared with previous years, city residents are visiting the restaurant and commercial establishments in general in smaller numbers. The impoverishment of society is visible to the “naked eye.” The most difficult time before the holidays will be faced by disability pensioners, retirees, low-paid workers and the unemployed. Before Christmas, let us think of those who will not be able to afford a present for their children or a more lavish Christmas Eve table.
Through the Social Welfare Centre, the Association of Pensioners and Disability Pensioners or the Polish Red Cross, it will be possible to help these people by donating clothing that is no longer worn but still in good condition, toys or household appliances.