It's a Wonderful Greeting

In countries like the UK, US, Canada, and many others, the winter break has for a long time been celebrated with cultural references to Christmas.  People with different religious beliefs or none have put up decorations, sent each other greetings, and talked about the ups and downs of family gatherings over this period.  Despite the contrasts in religious/secular backgrounds; preferences for food; inclinations to shop, drink, or watch TV; they share a common experience of ‘Christmas time’.

Thus, we greet each other ‘Merry Christmas!’

 

Appreciating that there are other cultural festivals that may be celebrated by other groups, some of us take note of these events, and send tailored greetings to friends and colleagues who follow, for example, Jewish, Islamic, Hindu, Chinese, or other traditional customs.  That is all well in itself.  But then, there are a few who seem to lose the plot.  They go from appreciating the customs of diverse groups in society, to calling for distancing from the inclusive customs that prevail across society.  In short, they want to see all references to Christmas removed.  They want us to give each other ‘seasonal’ greetings, and regard any display in public or personal communications mentioning ‘Christmas’ as unacceptable.

 

Not surprisingly, that led to a reaction against the perceived attack on prevailing customs.  Many feel that it was untenable that the diverse cultures of individual groups in society should be respected but the general culture characteristics of the whole society must be erased.  Unfortunately, this understandable reaction has been swiftly exploited by bigots and charlatans who try to turn it into a platform to condemn diversity and challenge multiculturalism.

 

In this season of goodwill, let us remember that Christmas in our society is a cultural event that promotes kindness, joy, and in truth, a fair amount of indulgence.  No one is pressured into going to church, sing carols, dress up as Santa, eat turkey, or watch the latest Xmas Special on TV.  Indeed, people are to enjoy themselves in whichever way they like.  It is fully compatible with wishing people with their own ethnic/religious/local customs the very best with their celebrations.  Anyone who try to hijack Christmas for their own fundamentalist sect poses as much a threat to Christmas as those who misguidedly want to blank it out.  

 

Christmas is a time for, not petty demarcation, but coming together.  It is a splendid tradition, as the year draws to a close, of reminding everyone to spread joy and hope.

 

Merry Christmas everyone!