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Just a simple note to readers on this Christmas Day 2008 occupies the sole post to be published. This applies to those who celebrate Christmas. It also applies to those who celebrate the Festival of Lights known as Chanukah. And surprisingly enough it applies to those who celebrate something else or nothing at all. There are all sorts of religions on the planet. There are those who follow a particular religion and those who do not. The interesting thing about religion is that it appears they all share at least in part an expressed desire for peace and love. The histories of all the religions also share some not so pleasant events. But there is a larger point about this that will be described with a personal anecdote.

I was raised a Christian. I grew up in an area with a long history of Christianity and a population that held a devotion to religion. Much about growing up was dominated by a set of principles that while religious in nature were as at home with someone religious and someone who was not. A great deal of the set of principles revolved around taking responsibility, doing the right thing, treating others well and asking forgiveness when one failed to adhere to this common sense set of rules to live by.

In terms of Christmas I remember being in awe of what I learned about Jesus and his life and sacrifice. Especially for a child or very young person the stories were all compelling and did leave a serious impression. Trying to understand it all was not simple and some points escaped me or raised questions. But the central theme or points all hit home. And I was astonished by the stories and what they meant. I had a deep respect and appreciation for God and at the same time was mystified by some of the teachings and doctrine.

Then there was the less religious but just as awesome aspects of Christmas that left their mark. The anticipation of the arrival of Christmas was an irresistible attraction for two reasons. As a kid I had participated in Midnight Mass at my church on many occasions and later attended with the same anticipation for the spectacle and enduring remembrance of the life of Jesus Christ. I found it magical. And of course, being a kid, the more Santa oriented side as well as all the food, gifts and time spent with family and friends was equally rewarding. The entire season was a magical and mystical occasion that lasted for some time.

As I write this my memory is replaying events of years gone by and I cherish all of it. I also remember there was much giving to those less fortunate and volunteering in various ways to participate in community activities that I believe strengthened the local area and made one proud to be part of it. Those values were passed on from generation to generation. It made people better and allowed very good things to happen that continued throughout the year.

These are the things I remember. These are the things I cherish. That is why I resent some of the opposition to expressing greetings like Merry Christmas or otherwise diminishing the celebration of events like Christmas or Chanukah. These are the very traditions that allow us to pursue our better nature and approach ideas like universal peace. Without them are chances are reduced. So again I offer this simple expression.

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, support peace on Earth and offer goodwill to others.

Stanford Matthews
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This entry was posted on Thursday, December 25th, 2008 at 12:59 pm and is filed under Announcement, wordpress, Christmas. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.