I am not a Christian. Do I believe in God? Sort of. Maybe. The jury’s out, but the point here is that I don’t worship in church/ mass, don’t believe Jesus was God incarnate, etc. But every year, I wish people a cheerful “Merry Christmas!”

Christmas has come to mean more than Christ’s birth, and I argue it has come to mean OTHER than that. We have two divergent meanings- one Christian and faith based, and one secular and socially based.

In the former, Christmas is a celebration of God coming into the world in the form of his special creation to experience life, joy, and suffering as they do. This is a joyous occasion, celebrated with special church services, etc.

But in the latter, Christmas is a social celebration and a time when our society traditionally draws together, supporting the less fortunate among us, repairing relationships with people we may have wronged this year, and showing our love and appreciation for those who have loved and supported us through meaningful gifts and get-togethers.

Christmas isn’t a Christian holiday anymore, sorry, friends. Christmas is a society-centered tradition which has helped to keep our communities running along.

So, Merry Christmas. Enjoy your pagan tree, your materialist gifts, and I hope you have given to the poor.

<3