Years ago there was a campaign to "put Christ back into Christmas." Evidently, there were folks who were upset by anything that said "Merry Xmas," and so they were out to get rid of the "X." (As a lover of the letter "X," I was offended!) But really, how absurd to go to the mat over this issue. While left and right battle this out, there are plenty of folks hurting at this time of year. Why not try to help those who need help? A needy child who receives a gift from a stranger isn't going to care if the store from which it was bought has pictures of the Baby Jesus or candy canes in the window. A homeless mother who receives some relief isn't going to complain if her gift comes from the Salvation Army or Muslim Family Relief Services. "'Tis the season of comfort and joy. Would that we all receive our joy from bringing comfort to others.
THE REV. C.L. "SKIP" LINDEMAN
Congregational Church of the Lighted Window
United Church of Christ
La Cañada Flintridge
We do not believe the secular forces can wipe out Christmas and we are not offended if we are wished a Merry Christmas or a Happy Holiday. We recognize that this is often a sincere attempt at inclusiveness, as many people are celebrating other holidays, or perhaps just as importantly, our traditional time of family unity and charity toward humanity.
Whatever one's religion, the Christian Christmas season is the time of preparing for the celebration of the birth of Jesus.
As Baha'is we recognize the nine divinely revealed religions of the world and their holy days. Our gift-giving time is in February; however, we celebrate Christmas with our Christian families and friends.
Perhaps the real meaning of this holy day has become lost to many with commercialism and Santa Claus. This is more of a concern to us than whether we are greeted with a Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays.
Most enjoy the beauty of the season regardless of their religion and wouldn't it be wonderful to feel the love of this holiday season all year, without the commercialism.
BARBARA CRAMER
Secretary
Baha'i Faith
Glendale20051210iaa6rbkf(LA)20051210ian1lxkf(LA)20051210igeforkf(LA)20051210i5y9n5kf(LA)20051210ian2vzkf(LA)20051210iijvmwkn(LA)
