Stephen Leacock: 'Now, the essence, the very spirit of Christmas is that we first make believe a thing is so, and lo, it presently turns out to be so.'

Now, the essence, the very spirit of Christmas is that we first make believe a thing is so, and lo, it presently turns out to be so.

The quote by Stephen Leacock, 'Now, the essence, the very spirit of Christmas is that we first make believe a thing is so, and lo, it presently turns out to be so,' captures the true essence of the holiday season. It emphasizes the importance of imagination, belief, and faith in the magic of Christmas. In a straightforward manner, Leacock's quote can be summarized as suggesting that by initially pretending something is real or possible, eventually it may indeed become a reality.However, let's dive deeper into the philosophical implications of this quote. The concept of "making believe" is not limited to Christmas alone but can be seen as a broader reflection of the human ability to shape reality through our thoughts and beliefs. This idea draws parallels to the philosophical concept of subjective reality, which posits that our perception of the world is shaped by our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs.In subjective reality, the power of imagination plays a crucial role. If we believe in something with unwavering conviction, it has the potential to manifest in our lives. This idea aligns with the law of attraction, which suggests that positive thoughts and beliefs attract positive outcomes. By embracing the spirit of Christmas and immersing ourselves in the magic, we may actually be inviting joy, love, and abundance into our lives.The significance of Leacock's quote lies in its reminder that by suspending our disbelief and embracing the spirit of Christmas, we open ourselves up to unlimited possibilities. It urges us to tap into the childlike wonder and imagination that often fades away as we grow older. Christmas becomes a time when we are encouraged to believe in miracles, to have hope, and to experience the joy of giving and receiving without skepticism or doubt.Contrasting the notion of subjective reality and Leacock's quote with the cynicism and rationality often associated with adulthood, we can see the power of embracing imagination through the lens of Christmas. The holiday season offers a respite from the mundane, a chance to believe in the extraordinary, and an opportunity to find comfort and solace in the intangible wonders of life. It reminds us that the world we perceive is influenced by our beliefs and mindset, and that by reshaping our thoughts, we can shape our reality.In essence, Leacock's quote highlights the transformative power of belief and imagination. Through the lens of Christmas, it encourages us to restore our faith in the unseen, reminding us that miracles are possible if we allow ourselves to make believe. This concept extends beyond the holiday season, reminding us to approach life with open hearts and minds, to embrace the power of our thoughts, and to unlock the potential for magic and wonder every day. So, this Christmas, let us make believe, and who knows, the wonders and joys we imagine might just turn out to be true.