think the true universal eccentricity is not what is celebrated, but the need to celebrate something

I also lived in a rural area when I was a child, but felt I was part of the larger culture that celebrated with trees (not so much plastic in those days) and gifts. I don't remember gifts that no one wanted. I always thought they were a delight, as long as they were wrapped. It didn't matter what was inside.

My family was lucky. While we didn't have the resources to buy a turkey, we did have generous relatives who financed our journey to their homes in NYC. There it was indeed celebration.

You are a gifted writer. I love this piece.