Those of us who grew up in Midwest communities share many of the same Christmastime experiences. Decorating the Christmas tree. Baking lots of sweets. Gathering of family. Opening of Christmas presents. Eating traditional foods. Attending a Christmas service at a church — and recognizing that the birth of Jesus Christ is the reason for Christmas.
We are also reminded that some of our neighbors today may look and act a little different than we are used to. Different traditions. Different meal choices. Different definitions of family. And a different interpretation of Christmas. Not wrong, necessarily. Just different.
Those of us who honor Jesus should know we need to work to understand and even appreciate those with different views and lifestyles than our own. That doesn’t mean we should abandon, deny or feel guilty about our own traditions and beliefs about Christmas. Unfortunately, we live in a world today when saying something as simple “Merry Christmas” is somehow offensive, which is the exact opposite of the intention.
For most of us, saying “Merry Christmas” is an uncomplicated invitation to family, friends and people we don’t even know yet to enjoy and celebrate the Christmas season — in any way they see fit. Let there be no doubt, I will be celebrating Christmas, and I hope you are able to as well.
“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Jack Frost nipping at your nose. Yuletide carols being sung by a choir. And folks dressed up like Eskimos.”
Yes, I am listening to “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole as I write this column, and I am reminded that “although it’s been said many times, many ways… Merry Christmas to you.”
Have a fantastic Friday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@gctimesnews.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305