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 …
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