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I've recently begun more interested in religion. It wasn't more than 3 months ago that I finally declared myself an atheist, rather than the "nothing" label I'd toted for years. I've readup on the basic tents of major religions (Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism) and now I'm delving into the less traditional(Wicca, Paganism, Humanism, etc).
In my newfound status, I'm considering Christmas. I haven't celebrated it as a religious holiday in at least 7 years (before that, I was forced to, but haven't truly believed since about age 12 or 12 years ago). I wanted to know where all the traditions came from. Of course, I found the many Pagan roots in Christmas, from solstice festivals and the like. Circle Sanctuary had a lot of tips/background celebrating winter solstice. Krismas had some very interesting ideas about celebrating Christmas's nonreligious brother, dedicated more to the spirit of Santa and doing good.
My problem with the solstice is the area we live in. Traditionally, you're celebrating the beginning of the end of winter, the point from which days get longer and nights get shorter, the triumph of dark over light. I'm sure that's applicable in many climates, but here in ND, December is just another month in a season that can be as long as 8 months. February is more of a turning point here, as it's usually the coldest month of the year. The idea of Krismas is cute, but I'm not a fan of Santa Clause. I didn't believe in him growing up and I've taught my kids that he's not real (but not to talk about with other kids, because they might upset them and we're to respect their beliefs).
So, what to do? I'm thinking I'll do a bit more decorating of the house itself, with wreaths, garland, holly, miseltoe (red, green and white are traditional Druidic colors), but stay away from Santa and angels. The tree is the big issue. I've always had a bigger one for presents (real) and a smaller, fake one for the kids to decorate. I'm thinking I'll still do the smaller one, but nix the larger. Really, what's the significance of bringing a tree into the house? Cutting off life from a perfectly good plant, plastering it with decorations, and getting needles everywhere? Nah.
I'm also on the hunt for volunteer work I can do with the kids, something to start to give them the idea of giving back during the holidays. I want to buy cards/presents from UNICEF and send a box out for Operation Heroes, which serves deployed troops. The man got quite a few things from organizations like them during his deployments and really appreciated them. A book from one, "The Soldier's Night Before Christmas" is still read every year to the girls.
Thing 1 is home, so I'll cut this short. Next time, hear about Christian music in Zumba and what I did about it! Plus, more volunteer hunting.
