Posted on 12/27/2012 12:57:52 PM PST by CharlesWayneCT
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Another thing that brings the community together is the Christmas holiday. Christmas is my favorite holiday, and my family has adopted many different traditions over the years.
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Many of these traditions show how Christmas fosters a sense of community, bringing together people who have little else in common to share in the magic and promise of the season. For a little while, we can put aside our political, cultural, and social differences and just watch trains go around a track, sing Christmas carols, watch dancers and musicians marching down the street, or just admire the lights and decorations together.
Some say that Christmas transcends its religious meaning; certainly it has a wide secular appeal and focus. But the true meaning of Christmas is the basis for that appeal. Our giving reflects God’s gift of his son Jesus, born to pay for our sins. Our celebration is like the angels and shepherds in the fields singing praises. The roots of Christmas may be a collection of secular traditions and celebrations, but it is now an event shared by people around the world — all because a child was born in a manger long ago. The angels proclaimed “Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men” — and today, Christmas remains the time of year when we strive to show good will to one another, to celebrate peace and friendship and community.
(Excerpt) Read more at insidenova.com ...
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