No, I Don’t Feel Like A Hypocrite for Loving Christmas Despite Not Being A Christian.
I was asked recently if I felt like a hypocrite for celebrating Christmas when I am not a Christian.
The question wasn’t posed maliciously, just curiously. I was having a discussion with someone about the importance of participating in Christmas when we aren’t Christians ourselves, when the question was asked by another person. I wasn’t offended, as it seemed the person was really trying to understand the conundrum.
The answer is no, I don’t feel like a hypocrite.
I love Christmas. I love Christmas carols, Christmas trees, Christmas lights and Christmas cheer. I love “O Holy Night” as much as “All I want for Christmas is You.” Every year, we read the Christmas story from the book of Luke, and “A Cup of Christmas Tea” by Tom Hegg, and I have an angel resting on the top of my Christmas tree. I love Christmas because it is a time of renewal, hope, and peace. I love Christmas, despite not considering myself a Christian.
I don’t want this to be a discussion about the intricate details of my beliefs, but for the sake of understanding where I stand on Christmas, I will say that I do have a strong belief in a higher power, but I don’t go to church, and that doesn’t take away from the importance of the season for me. For me, it’s a reminder of the importance of giving to others, practicing forgiveness, and gathering those you love close to your heart. It’s a time to reflect, to contemplate, and to remember. It’s a time to renew and rejuvenate your inner spirit.
As a family, we understand the origins of Christmas and the message behind the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. We know the importance of the meaning of the holiday as well as we know the seasonal traditions of our family. There are decorations, presents, and lots of food, but all of it is a platform for being with family. We share meals, laugh over memories, make new memories, and reaffirm our true thankfulness for each other. Regardless of how one feels about religion, celebrating the joy, hope, peace, and gratefulness of the season is universal, and can be done with sincerity.
So bring on the Christmas carols, the nativity scenes, the story of the babe in a manger. All of it fills me with warmth and gratitude and I don’t feel like a hypocrite for it. Along with the Christmas trees, Christmas decorations, Christmas movies, and Christmas Day with my family, it’s all part of what makes the holiday meaningful for me.
