by Dan Williams

Created on: January 07, 2010   Last Updated: January 08, 2010

Clearly NO! This is not about Christians celebrating Christmas publicly but about freedom of expression and freedom of equal expression of all religions. As theologians and historians emphatically state Jesus was not born on Christmas, as well as Christians we continue to celebrate this tradition. Traditions help us become grounded, help us pray and have firm roots in giving back to others. With religion aside this is more about other religions not being able to celebrate publicly. All individuals have the right to express their beliefs and celebrate their religion;however what is written and allegedly protected is not practiced.

All too often it is the minorities in the religious realms that get slighted, which continues in this decade. Sadly to say when Christians take on a " holier than thou " stance they present with perceived arrogance and condescension. Jesus is the Savior bar none and you are lost if you do not celebrate on my terms. of course this is not with all Christians, but enough to present the ugliness of their unilateral stance. As the right wing movement became stronger over the years more and more press was given to the intolerance. Look at this article and it's topic. Would this even been considered twenty years ago? 

Should Christmas be celebrated publicly? Yes. Should there be more acceptance of others? Absolutely!  All should have freedom of speech, freedom of religion as well as being protected by governmental laws to allow that freedom to take place. In an ideal society that would be true. Insecurity gives way to seeking out comfort in religion, and then wrapping ourselves around that religion. Hold on tight, do not let go, for if one does they may feel as if they are less of a person. How far from the truth. Find yourself? Feel good about who you are first, then find a religion or spirituality that fits for you or don't. 

Whatever you choose, be proud, celebrate, but do not flaunt, do not wave it in others faces stating this is the only way or the highway. Celebrate Christmas, celebrate any religion, and do not fall prey to peer pressure or political pressure form others. Yes, this is difficult but we all deserve this freedom as well as deserve the acceptance that we frequently do not receive. Should Jesus celebrate Christmas, His birthday, so to speak, would he put down with disdain others who celebrate other beliefs? I think not. If those out there really want to wear (WWJD) what would Jesus do? bracelets, then let them implement the behavior, not just flaunt the message that they are a Christian.

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