“Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is truly about?” cries our beloved, perpetually downcast hero, Charlie Brown, his arms thrown wide in frustration. This moment captures the essence of holiday nostalgia, and I adore those animated Christmas specials. Dr. Seuss and Charles Schulz had a magical way of tugging at our heartstrings.
Enter Linus, clutching his somewhat questionable security blanket, ready to enlighten Charlie Brown. “Of course, I can tell you what Christmas is all about!” he declares, reciting a Bible verse about the birth of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, that verse tends to sail right over my head, much like the adults in the Peanuts gang, whose sounds resemble a trombone’s honk.
As a product of a mixed heritage—my mother’s side is Jewish, and my father’s side leans Episcopalian or maybe Methodist—I find myself in the unique position of celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah. Yes, I’m bi-religious! I embrace both sides of the holiday season, and I often see memes and bumper stickers claiming I’m doing it all wrong.
I don’t attend church or temple. My understanding of (C)han(n)uk(k)a(h) was shaped by a delightful Rugrats special (sorry, Grandma), and my Biblical knowledge is primarily gleaned from the rants of pundits on daytime TV and a sprinkle of Simpsons jokes. According to many of the bumper stickers I’ve encountered, I’m an abomination and a contributor to the moral decline of our society.
Addressing the Opinions
Let’s address these opinions head-on. First off, if Jesus is the reason for the season, why are we celebrating in December? That date was likely chosen to align with the pagan Winter Solstice. And “decking the halls with boughs of holly”? Yep, another pagan tradition that early Christians tried to suppress. As for putting “Christ back in Christmas,” I’ll channel my inner Cartman: “Whatever. I do what I want.”
If Christmas is a sacred celebration for you, that’s fantastic! Enjoy it to your heart’s content. But remember, the meaning of the holiday season varies for everyone.
My Holiday Traditions
For me, the season is about lighting the menorah while my dad, the goy, belts out a hilariously off-key “Happy Chanukah to you!” and we all gather for a group hug. It’s my grandfather offering blessings over the candles as our family feasts on latkes and applesauce. For a friend, Christmas means putting on a family play featuring news reporters and a superhero. For another, it’s about herding all the kids into one room for presents while they line up by age to dash downstairs. And for yet another, it’s the tradition of hiding a pickle ornament on the tree for everyone to find.
Christmas traditions can be a bit strange, but they’re unique and wonderfully charming—much like Charlie Brown’s scraggly Christmas tree.
The real essence of Christmas isn’t found in Linus’s Biblical recitation; it’s in that quirky tree. It’s imperfect yet beautiful, radiating warmth from the love invested in it. The special concludes with the tree glowing with holiday joy, thanks to Charlie Brown’s quirky family.
To me, the holidays are about family—whether by blood or by choice—and celebrating together in any way we can. As for organized religious traditions? They connect me to my heritage. I cherish lighting the candles on my old menorah, a cherished heirloom from my great-grandmother. It brings me joy to know she did the same on every 25th of Kislev, just as I do now. Similarly, opening gifts under the Christmas tree is special, not just for the presents but because it’s a tradition passed down through generations.
I respect those who want to include Christ in their Christmas celebrations or who embrace the spiritual significance of each holiday. Clearly, for Linus, Christmas revolves around that passage from Luke 2:4-14, and the beauty in his heartfelt recitation is undeniable. I suspect that verse is what unites the Schulz family each year.
Inclusivity in Celebrations
However, I become cautious when people impose their beliefs on others. It’s disheartening to see outrage directed at stores that say “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.” “Happy Holidays” doesn’t dismiss Christmas; it simply embraces everyone, including those of us who don’t fit neatly into the traditional Christian narrative. It’s a warm acknowledgment for all who celebrate Christmas, New Year’s, Kwanzaa, Festivus, or even those who simply enjoy the festive lights around town. I genuinely believe Jesus would approve of this inclusive spirit. After all, he probably celebrated Chanukah too!
So this Christmas, let’s place Christ wherever you feel he belongs in your celebrations.
Further Reading
For more on navigating different traditions, you might find inspiration in our other blog posts, including this one about home insemination. If you’re exploring the journey to parenthood, check out this excellent resource. And if you’re seeking information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this comprehensive insights page.
Conclusion
In summary, the essence of the holiday season is about family and the love we share, regardless of how we choose to celebrate. Embrace your traditions, however quirky they may be!