Saline Courier Column #2
I have been seeing posts all over Facebook lately, and hearing controversy in general, about the Merry Christmas vs. Happy Holidays debate. To be honest, I have had enough of it. I understand that most of those who say “Happy Holidays” are just trying to be politically correct-“Happy whatever-holiday-you-celebrate-this-time-of-year!” It is not my typical seasonal greeting but I am not offended if someone greets me with “Happy Holidays”. In fact, I wouldn’t be offended if someone wished me a Happy Hanukkah or a Happy Kwanzaa, either. Personally, I celebrate Christmas; so I would probably return the greeting with “Merry Christmas”.
This time of year everyone seems to be consumed by the hustle and bustle of the season-the cooking, the parties, traditions galore, and the shopping…oh, the shopping! They forget what the season is really all about. Who can give (or get) the biggest, the best, the most expensive gift on ones wish-list? Christmas has truly been plagued by commercialism. I am not saying that you should not partake in the tradition of gift-giving but does it have to be to the extreme? Are you the type of person that assaults twenty people with pepper spray to prevent them from taking the item you had intended to buy on Black Friday? Or, are you the type of person that will give up the last X-Box 360 Kinect in the county to a single mother because that is the one and only item her child wanted from Santa this year?
As Christians, this is the season to remember and celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ; whether he really was born on Christmas. Keeping in mind the spirit of the season, do we as Christians, continue to fight this “war on Christmas” or do we take a step back and try to be more humble, peaceful, and generous to those less fortunate… more Christ-like? Instead of purchasing one more gift for your child, take your child to adopt an angel off the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree. Show them how wonderful it feels to give a Christmas gift to a child less fortunate. Instead of reading The Night Before Christmas to your family on Christmas Eve night read; them the story of Christ’s birth. Before serving your family Christmas dinner; go to a local church pantry or food bank and volunteer to help serve a meal to the homeless. Talk with them and share the story of how you came to know Jesus.
Last weekend, the church I attend had a luncheon for those in our community who use its pantry. I had been asked to sing at the event. It was the first time I had sung in public since my vocal chord paralysis two years ago. I thought I was terrible but that doesn’t really matter. What a blessing it was to spend some time with some very strong and courageous members of our community. There was one sweet lady, in particular, who invited me to come listen to her sing Christmas carols while she rings the bell for the Salvation Army. I am looking forward to doing so.
This season let us look for the good in others and give of ourselves instead of being self-centered and selfish. Let us find happiness in the small, simple things and give thanks to a loving God who sent his only Son to dwell among men. I wish you all a beautiful holiday season with loved ones. Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Merry Christmas…Happy Holidays. Until next week, be happy!
