I didn’t realize you wrote this when I posted the Yes, Virginia editorial.
Now that I realize it I must say you sound very unhappy.
I don’t think there is anything wrong with Christmas being in part a, how should I say it?, recasting of pagan holidays. That to me is fascinating and wonderful.
Christmas is the one time of year when we are all urged to think of others, to strive to make our loved ones and even strangers happy.
I think that very much is a Christian message.
And for all the nonsense of retail advertising, I don’t know that so many people succumb to that.
Don’t you think it is a good thing that we have a time in our culture where we celebrate family, the innocence of children, and yes God almighty?
If you don’t want to do the gift giving thing, find a performance of the Messiah and go see it; sing carols; do toys for tots; work in a soup kitchen.
Christmas is about the glory of God, celebrate that in the way you think is best, but please don’t buy into what the atheists say about it. My goodness, I’d take Macy’s over that crew 8 days a week.
God rest you merry, gentlewoman.
Why strive to help others and give to others only at Christmas? That should be done year round. All those things you mentioned are wonderful. But it doesn’t negate the fact that Christmas has been hijacked by retailers. I’m not buying into what the atheists say, I happen to believe they are right on this point.