Be forewarned – this is a Christmas rant...
A silent minority I am no longer, at least on this blog. Actually, in life I’ve never been accused of being demure, though living in the South has offered a fruitful exercise in patience and understanding. If I don’t want to be ostracized during this season of joyful expression then I must accept the south’s assumption that everyone is Christian during December.
There are no Jews. No Buddhists. No celebrations of Kwanzaa. No agnostic expressions of love and giving. In fact there are no traditions worthy of recognition other than for those who believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ. You don’t get to play in December’s sandbox of love unless you share the belief in Jesus Christ the lord of lords.
Holiday get togethers I’ve attended start with a prayer in the name of “Jesus Christ our Lord” and, at times, end with an impromptu Bible study of relevant scripture. That kind of agenda was not included on the invitation but, hey, that’s what this season’s about, isn’t it?
Frankly, I’m not bothered a lick that people believe in the divinity of Christ. My feeling is that the spiritual path tends to lead to the same place regardless of the avenues taken. And if it offers joy and peace for people to think Jesus is God, good for them.
It’s equally ok if you don’t.
And I don’t.
My heritage is Judaism and my family celebrated Hanukkah – in December. And it usually falls right around Christmas time.
As an adult I don’t identify as Jewish, certainly not as Christian either. My spiritual tradition incorporates philosophies of Buddhism and Yoga flavored by a Native American appreciation for nature and all living things. But it’s a personal practice that doesn’t include the assumption that you feel the same way.
I don’t need Jesus to save my soul, in fact, my soul doesn’t need saving. My conscience is clear, my heart is full, my principles and values are in tact AND I celebrate the season of giving and love during December. I don’t give thanks for all the grace in my life in the name of Jesus Christ.
If you’re Christian, enjoy the holiness of the season.
If you’re not –
Happy Holidays to you and yours in the name of your own traditions. May we all absorb the warmth of this time of year and offer it out to the universe.
Namaste.
Carry on …
actthreedotnet 
LOVE this and agree 110%!!
You should have taken my cue and left early when I did. I saw it coming…J was not happy that I left when I did, either!
You forgot to mention the pastafarians.
Long live the followers of the Flying Spaghetti Monster.
Ramen.
OK then! Make sure it’s spicy.
And, Joyce, most Christians have more respect for others than to mix a neighborhood party with a prayer service. It is something to be considered when attending that party and likely accounts for the small attendance. I have heard others say in year’s past that they think it is disrespectful to people who live in the neighborhood who are non-Christian. One woman in the nabe who is Episcopalian boycotts the party for that very reason. So, in defense of many of us, I think there are plenty of Christian people in the South who have consideration for the religious beliefs of others. There are many different Christian denominations, many of which do not believe in making others feel uncomfortable in a social setting.
So much for my ability to read a room. I didn’t realize that’s the direction it would go – you should have clued me in! I’ve gotten used to the early prayers, but later…oy vey! I will know from now on. Thanks for your thoughts!
Thank you so much! I personally celebrate the Solstice … and candlemas … and yule … and love everything about this season of love and family and light and giving and joy!
Namaste …. I honor you!
Candlemas. Cool! Shalom to you Itty Bitty Boomer
I agree with Lynn, Joyce. I’m sorry you were made to feel uncomfortable. That said, I appreciate the reminder! I wish you only joy and peace this holiday season:)
Dear Joyce, The best gift we can give each other is who we really are. Thank you for being Joyce. Isn’t it sad that in this season of light and love there are those who judge, misrespresent, and are disingenuious. Blessings, Marcia
Ahhh the foibles of being human. Merry Christmas Marcia.
since this is published in Canada’s national newspaper, it will only be around for next few days before you have to pay to access it, so here it is:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/holiday/the-special-duty-of-a-jewish-christmas-baby/article2282569/
You might enjoy the intertwining themes.
I don’t consciously avoid saying Merry Christmas even though I am not Christian at all. It is a wish that is more casual/off-hand from myself. I can’t imagine being in the deep South, where there are strong enclaves of Christians/Bible belt (I heard from a brother-in-law who worked there for a few years in Texas….)
Happy holidays is a safe salutation/good-bye. But (to me) sounds a bit limp and too generic. After all, Chinese New Year’s is coming up for some of us in a few months…so does Happy Holidays cover that?? Nope. Not for me, in meaning and type of celebration.