I was reminded of it today by flashing lights on the streets, several Christmas markets and, yes, Christmas songs performed by street musicians. I was only reminded of this feast day by the Christmas decoration, not by my faith. I probably have to define my attitude toward religion as agnostic, meaning that existence of any deity is unknowable, at least not in a rational way.
Nevertheless, I actually like the Christmas time. I like many lights in the city, Christmas events and glühwein. People are friendly and cheerful. Though, they often become quite stressed towards the 24th of December. This is because of theier (voluntary or perceived) duty to make their relatives and friends happy by giving them Christmas gifts.
My family, like me, does not celebrate Christmas in this traditional way. But I have to admit, when I am invited to join my friends to celebrate Christmas with them, I stick to the tradition and organise some nice little things for them. In some way, it is just nice to make a pleasure to someone you like.
Oh, and I also like this “Jingle Bells” song:It makes a good mood, albeit kitschy, but still nice.
I am wondering, whether the majority of the Christmas-celebrating-folk actually remembers the reason to celebrate? I mean, I have seen some reports on TV, which revealed that there are many (expecially young people) who do not know that, according to the Christian faith, Jesus Christ was born a long time before on 25th of December. It seemed, many interviewees just followed the tradition to celebrate, to buy gifts, etc. only because they are used to do so..
Apropos buying presents: Christmas time is the best season for every retailer. The sales soar up incredibly. Not for no reason the shops open on four last weekends before Christmas day, at least in Germany. It pays for them in any case to engage an extra personnel and to incur additional costs, an increased turnover justifies this expenditure.
Thus, I tend to believe there is more commerce nowadays about the Christmas, rather than a religious motive to celebrate the Nativity of Jesus.
What do y o u think about this topic? Why do y o u celebrate Christmas? Let me know about your motives.
Thanks in advance!
