A Sane Christmas

Christmas has come and gone, and sanity was preserved throughout. I enjoyed seeing all three parts of the family together for the holiday. It was also good to see so many of our friends that we don’t often get to visit with. It’s good to have a time of year when we are nudged to be together.

This was my first Christmas season as an atheist, and I found it surprisingly refreshing. I’m not one of those militant atheists who put up silly plaques in public parks that deflate the mystical spirit of the holiday season. What’s the harm in a little mythology to go with the holidays?

No, what’s refreshing is that I didn’t have to do anything for God this season. I focused instead on family and friends – tangible people whom I love and who have meaningful relationships. No worrying about angels or demons, no more guilt, just plain old simple what’s-in-front-of-me to be concerned with. Christmas might have its mythical narratives but it ends up being about good things, and that’s what matters to me.