For Christians such as me, Christmas has a special meaning. However, many people of other religious beliefs from Jewish to Buddhists, Muslims to Hindus, Native beliefs as well as Atheists still “celebrate” the giving of gifts, enjoying light displays and being including in pre-holiday get togethers. Most, because of the commercialization of Christmas. Even the evolution of the celebration of Christmas by Christians has changed over the centuries. St Nicholas began the tradition of stuffing socks for Christmas in the 4th century, and the Germans began the tradition of the Christmas tree (Tannenbaum) in the 17th century, then brought this tradition to North America where it gained further steam, to become the amazing industry it is here now. What never changed, even today, are the basics of the meaning of Christmas – LOVE! During World War I and in certain areas during World War II, opposing armies – or rather, the soldiers themselves – observed a self-imposed cease fire to celebrate Christmas with stories and songs, and remembrances of loved ones at home, or who have passed on. In addition, Christmas Day and Christmas Eve are the 2 days in the year most popular for couples to become engaged.

Either way, the basis for all celebrations around the Christmas holiday have one thing in common and that is LOVE. If the commercialization of the holiday has led to further spread of love on just one day around the world, then I for one embrace, and even endorse it! If opposing forces can bely their determination to kill each other for even a “moment”, there is still hope for humanity and that hope has been and always will be LOVE. A wise man (Jesus himself) once said “Anyone can love their family and friends, that is easy, but it takes someone special to love their Enemies”. So, if for one day, love can prevail over all, LOVE is the one hope we have for all humanity!

With Lover for All,

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