A heartwarming Christmas advert from the German supermarket chain Edeka went viral in 2015, but is still very relevant thanks to powerful message about the importance of family during the holidays it brings with it.
The story tells of an elderly grandfather who, tired of spending Christmas alone, decides to take a drastic measure to reunite his children and grandchildren. With a heavy heart from separation and abandonment, the grandfather sends a message to his family announcing his death.
This news upsets the childrennow far away and too busy with their own lives to spend time with their parent. Despite efforts to stay in touch through simple Christmas greetings, the father is left sadly Alone. The information of his death comes as a blow to the heart for his children, who rush home to say their final goodbyes, ready to participate in the funeral.
“How else could I have had you all here?”
When they arrive, however, they are faced with an unexpected scene. The house is decorated for Christmaswith lights and decorated trees, but the funeral they expected isn’t there. Instead, the grandfather appears smiling from the kitchen, alive and in perfect health.
His intention was not to cause pain, but to reunite the family, to finally have everyone together for a party that seemed far away. With a sincere smile, the grandfather apologizes, asking: “How else could I have had you all here?”.
The surprise and emotion overwhelm the children, who cannot hold back their tears. It is a moment of joy mixed with repentance, as they realize how much have neglected the family bondtoo busy with their own lives and tasks. The meeting turns into a celebration of love and closeness, with the family finally reunited, at the table together as in the past, sharing the warmth of celebration and forgiveness.
The message that Edeka intends to communicate with this commercial is clear: Christmas is the time to be with your loved ones, not to lose contact with the people who are close to you, not only physically but also emotionally. The beauty of the holidays lies not in the gifts or decorations, but in the opportunity to experience moments of happiness and sharing together. At Christmas, but also all year round without ever forgetting the most important loved ones.
