J is for Jesus (and not in the way you think)
By - April 11, 2013
What is it about the saying "Happy Holidays" that gets everyone into such an uproar? Maybe it's just because I live in the South, but around here, saying, "Happy Holidays," instead of, "Merry Christmas," is a huge bone of contention. You see, there is a rumor about that someone has started taking the Christ out of Christmas.
Now, believe me, I was as surprised as you are! Last I heard, "Silent Night" was still sung in conjunction with Christmas, and nativity scenes are abundant, even if they are right next to Rudolph in the giant excessive Christmas light display next door. (Side note: No, seriously...the light up nativity is next to a Snow Man, but who's counting?)
And yet...
In some cases, Santa is even brought into the mix. When he is, he is either pissed...
or insulted...
Oh, yeah, Santa, you selfish bastard! Take that! I'm so glad someone had the guts to say this. I would really hate to think kids would enjoy Christmas without someone to point out to them that Santa is really just a sad excuse for a human. I mean, sure, he brings them toys, but that's really only because he isn't brave enough to take one for the team. Oh, really, Santa? You love us? Two words for you, Santa: prove it.
For me, I think Santa's just around to bolster spirits. I mean, let's look at the facts here. Christmas is a celebration traditionally for the birth of Jesus. Re: Birth = pain, blood, screaming. Then at Easter, we have another Jesus "deathday party," if you will. Re: Crucifixion = pain, blood, screaming (Side note: Not to mention betrayal, abandonment, and that lovely little suicide in the middle of the Easter story). So in my world, Santa is a nice little buffer where Jesus sort of said, "Okay, guys. I know my stories are a little gory, so I've sent Santa to give you all presents on my 'birthday' since I can't get my own presents...because I'm dead. Or a ghost. Either way, no hands to bring the toys. Enjoy."
I personally like this take:
Keep Christ in Christmas, but he can be in the same yard as Frosty.
Do you wish people a happy holidays, a merry Christmas, or otherwise?
FLASH POINT (Dr. Jenna Ramey #3)
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