by Oxpictus

Created on: December 30, 2008

This is the 21st Century. Most advanced countries including the United States of America, are a homogeneous mixture of different nationalities, races and religions. We are civilized, politically correct, tolerant. We strive to be accepting of others and their beliefs, andemployers rearrange their schedules to accomodate the requests of each employee, so that they can participate in their special days of religious holidays.

Frequently, in a spirit of ecumenism, two different religious organizations will have a con-celebration, acknowledging and respecting the differences in their faiths, and their wonderful, heart-warming similarities. I have attended con-celebrations, and I believe everyone that was there experienced the deep feelings of community, oneness and brotherhood.

Many religions have major celebrations within the same time frame of December. Christians celebrate Christmas, Jews celebrate Hanukkah, African-Americans celebrate Kwanzaa, Muslims celebrate Eid-al-adha, Hindus celebrate Diwali, Wiccans celebrate Yule, and all are celebrated during the month of December. So many different religions have special celebrations that are in December.

I once worked in an office where we celebrated Chinese New Year, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas. It was wonderful to learn about the beliefs of others, and our office (in a large organization) was a place of true brotherhood and understanding. We put up decorations for each belief in a special area, and everyone joined in. Management did not say a word, we all had a say in whether we would do it or not, and to what extent we would decorate. Ours was a very popular office. (With goodies and treats from all cultures, for a long time!)

I think that public squares- whether they are in the USA or abroad- should allow an area of display for any and all religions to create their own holiday display during the month of December. Surely there is room somewhere, in each community public square, where we all can really celebrate not only our differences, but our similarities in respecting one another, and joining in.

I know those who are Atheist who may be reading this may protest, but even Atheists could have their own area, and decorate (or not decorate it) as they pleased.

Hopefully, we are civilized enough to understand that December Holidays do not encompass only one religion, but many. We should embrace the fact that each and every one of us is free to celebrate whatever we choose (or not celebrate), and to respect the rights of others.

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