Commercial Christmas

This recent guest column by Dr. Leonard Peikoff was a very interesting, thought-provoking read. His historical timelines and explanations were well researched, easy to follow and shed light on many of the Christmas traditions that we enjoy today.

His comment of "let's take the Christ out of Christmas, and turn the holiday into a guiltlessly egoistic, pro-reason, this-worldly, commercial celebration," made me ponder if that hadn't actually already been accomplished. Many no doubt find themselves experiencing Dr. Peikoff's kind of Christmas year after year. While they attempt to have a joyous, bountiful holiday, filled with the mirth and overindulgence they see marketed all around them, they later find themselves feeling empty as they clean up the discarded papers, wash loads of dishes and berate themselves for eating or drinking too much once again. The end result winds up being the same year after year; more debt, more pounds to lose and children who still desire the latest, greatest thing, even in the midst of their overabundance.

Perhaps Dr. Peikoff's Christ-less Christmas celebrating selfishness has already lost its fervor in your house? Have you discovered that a Christmas filled with excessive amounts of toys, food, unmet expectations and the deep debt of a commercial Christmas isn't what you really needed after all? If so, consider a Christ-filled Christmas this year and find some lasting satisfaction. Food gets eaten and toys are discarded, but a relationship with the Lord will last you a lifetime. Merry Christmas.

Dorothy L. Harris
Sebring