Chri$tma$

Although Christmas may have started as a Christian holiday, it has branched out and now is probably observed (not exactly celebrated) by other faiths and even atheists as a time to exchange gifts and take time off work. These people don't fuss much about their observation unless it intereferes with their lifestyle. The pine trees for sale and the holiday discounts at the store don't raise any eyebrows and they certainly are not discriminatory in any way, but if the city displays a nativity scene, well, that's when things get nasty.

It's not the atheists that have degraded Christmas to its present commerciality, that was done by the good old Sunday School attending Christians who preach their religion on Sunday and leave it at the door of the church on the way out. Last I knew, the giving of gifts was supposed to represent the gifts the magi left the Christ child and, more importantly, the gifts that He gave us. But, in a day where we worship technology, money, power, influence and other such worldly things, giving gifts to others is simply a way to say "thanks," "good work," "I love you," or even "I gave you something so I want something in return." As long as someone out there is still giving toys anonymously to the family down the street or giving food, blankets, and clothes to the homeless we at least stand a chance of a comeback.