Thoughts About Christmas

Merry Christmas!  I say that without apology.  I truly do wish you a Merry Christmas!  (If you'd rather have happy holidays instead, knock yourself out!) 

Like the vast majority of Americans (whether Christian or not) I celebrate Christmas.  And in my experience, my friends of other faiths don't mind me wishing them a Merry Christmas either - it IS a national holiday after all.  Even those who celebrate a secular Christmas, based on Santa Claus, silver bells, roasting chestnuts, and shopping - are celebrating Christmas!  They're not giving "December 25th presents" or "holiday presents" - they're giving Christmas presents.  They're not decorating "holiday trees" or covering the house with "holiday lights" - they're hanging tinsel on Christmas trees and hauling out the boxes marked "Christmas decorations." They're not listening to "winter music" or "season music" (as in Season's Greetings) - they're listening to Christmas music!  Unfortunately, political correctness is turning this special holiday (the word itself means "Holy Day") into a drab imitation of the real thing. 

Have you ever met anyone that was truly offended that you wished them a Merry Christmas? In 54 years, I have not. Then why do we fear to speak those words?  If someone offers us a greeting for a holiday we don't celebrate, can't we simply say, "thanks - you too" and try not to let it ruin our day?

Political correctness aside, Christmas has special meaning and lots of happy memories for many of us.  As a Christian, I celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior of mankind.  His example of humility and love is one that we strive (and usually fail) to emulate.  Our family enjoys having a "birthday party" for Jesus, reading the Biblical account of the Nativity, and attending church.  But we also celebrate most of the other Amerian Christmas traditions:  a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, holly and poinsettias, gift-giving, Christmas carols, lots of great food, and fun and fellowship with family and friends. 

I hope you enjoy joyous times as well.  As the song says, "It's the Happ - Happiest Time of the Year!"  Please don't be offended if I wish you a Merry Christmas.  I'm merely sharing my happiness with you.  And if you celebrate a different holiday, don't hesitate to share your happiness with me!