format_quote Originally Posted by
Trumble
The only thing I would add is that the whole Christmas 'thing' is now so far removed from what it should be, a religious holiday, that I'm not even sure it matters any more. And I say that as a Buddhist, goodness knows what Christians must think. It's still a big 'family' time, which is good, but beyond that Christmas just seems one big excuse for people to get drunk and rack up credit card debt.
I do agree with you, Trumble.
Deep in my heart I wish I could strip away all the hussle and bussle of Christmas, the secular influences, the pagan symbols, the consumerism, the drunken parties ... and just sit quietly, reflecting on the birth of Christ ...
But as it stand, Christmas is what it has become, so the best I can do is to remember it's true meaning (for me as a Christian), and not lose focus of that.
I heard that in the Netherlands the gift-giving is done earlier in December, on the feast of St Niklas - which then leaves Christmas itself as a religious festival, observed only by Christians.
I must admit, I like that idea ...
Anyway, can I wish
you a merry Christmas, Trumble? :)
Peace