I fear I no longer give gifts for Christmas. (It's that religion thing you don't want us talking about here, I'm afraid; I also don't start "celebrating" the holiday until Christmas day itself.)

I do intend writing Christmas letters, however, and hopefully will have them all done in time to send them out on December 23rd or 24th.

Were I giving gifts, though, I probably would try to find a book or musical gift that fit each recipient's particular interests and values.

Originally Posted by: Wade 

I'm sorry to hear that some of you have little to no holiday spirit. We are all grateful for the good health of our families and welcome good news in times of trouble.

It is my greatest wish that the Holiday Season will foster goodwill and lift spirits of all.

[cheers]

Originally Posted by: Smokey 

People can celebrate whatever they want. Whenever they want.

If people want to celebrate a secular season, go for it. As often and in whatever way you want. For whatever reason you think worth celebrating. With big gifts, small gifts, lotsa gifts, whatever. Celebration is fun.

I just wish y'all would give back the word. The word means "Christ's mass."

And, to some of us, celebrating the birth of Christ is far more important than any other reason for celebrating in December. For us, it's a celebration in and of worship, just as holidays like Ramadan or Hanukkah are celebrations of worship for people of other beliefs.

And, while this one doesn't matter for non-Christians, IMO for those do who claim to be Christians, labelling office parties, gifts of toys and other consumption goods, and all the other secular celebrations with the word "Christmas" is both idolatrous and blasphemous.

Originally Posted by: Wade