Earlier this week I read about the airport in Seattle, Washington, removing its Christmas trees for fear of being sued by a group (or groups) who felt it was an inappropriate display of religious symbols in a government-owned facility. Give me a break.
In my mind, nativity scenes, crosses, menorahs, and the star of David are religious symbols that don't belong in government offices, but Christmas trees and wreaths have become secular symbols of the winter holiday season. People can spout off about their pagan history and how the symbolism of eternal life was hijacked by Christians later on but I don't think most people consider any of that when they view a Christmas tree today.
Christmas has a dual identity. It is celebrated as a religious holiday by Christians and as a secular holiday by those with no particular religious beliefs who want to party, gather with friends and family, exchange gifts, and share warm fuzzies. The December holiday season is simply a cultural landmark on the calendar of Western Civilization. A Christmas tree is just part of the festive winter decor.
Think about it--many shopping districts have trees draped in lights year round, stores sell wreaths for every season, and people decorate for Halloween and spring (is an egg or a bunny a religious symbol? I don't think so).
To me, Christmas trees, colored lights, and candles in the window are simply beautiful items that brighten the darkest month of the year.
What do you think? Is a Christmas tree a religious symbol? Does it bother you to see them in hospitals, airports, public offices? I'd especially be interested in hearing the opinion of non-Christians.
December 15, 2006
Copyright 2006 Veronica McCabe Deschambault. All rights reserved. www.v-grrrl.com