Christmas. The word can conjure up a host of emotions. Typically for children, it’s a joyous time, filled with excitement and anticipation. But for those who have been laid off, struggled with health issues, or lost a loved one, it can be a difficult and stressful season.

The following is an excerpt from a post I had published several years ago.

“I hate Christmas!” he said. What?! Did he really say that? How can anyone hate Christmas? Obviously not spoken by a holiday reveller or follower of Christ. I get a quizzical look and an answer, though not the one I was looking for.

I get a modified response from my acquaintance – who shall remain nameless – a little less severe but just as powerful. “Well, I suppose I dislike the Christmas season.” That sentiment is probably shared by more than just a few.

Hold it! Let’s back up just a bit. Christmas and all its trappings is easily swallowed up by the countless children who’ve been indoctrinated from an early age to look forward to the magical season. Unfortunately, the appeal stems from a mythical figure and not the divine Christ Child.

Although to be fair, it all started with the right motivation and good intentions, derived from St. Nicholas, a Greek Bishop, living during the Roman era, circa 280 A.D. He was known to be a patron of many groups and his generosity to the impoverished was well-known. Perhaps that is where folklore took over and morphed the good bishop into a saintly figure who eventually became a giver of gifts to all children.

Sadly, the giving of gifts has taken on a whole different meaning, one that I’m sure was never intended. A poem by Clement Moore in 1822, entitled, A Visit from St. Nicholas, was well received by family and friends. However, once it was published under a new title, The Night before Christmas, it was quickly propelled into something not intended by the original author. The generous and wise St. Nicholas had transformed into a jolly rotund man who had the ability to whisk through the night sky on a magical sled pulled by reindeer no less.

Now better known as Santa Claus, the mystical figure no longer stems from central Europe but apparently lives at the North Pole, surrounded by elves who seem to do all the work. I trust they have a generous compensation package.

And with that revelation, everything has changed. Sure, we still have the nativity scene depicting the manger and baby Jesus, but all too often, it’s an after-thought and the figurines are relegated to the side or occupy a corner of the fireplace. The prominent display now consists of a large (often fake) over-decorated Christmas tree, its base obscured with brightly coloured presents.

 Hence the dislike for the so-called Yuletide season. It has changed so much that some even dread going to the local shopping centre, afraid of being accosted by the frenzy that accompanies harried shoppers. All the hustle and bustle surrounding Christmas has changed our perception of the holiday season, turning from one of anticipation and joy to one of dread and resignation.

But then I happen to drive past what’s now the Canada Life Centre building, situated across the street from the Manitoba Legislature. It is that sight that takes me back to my boyhood and rekindles my fondness for the Christmas season. There, prominently displayed, are the three Magi, along with their camels, eclipsed by a star. It’s a magical sight, particularly when seen at night.

The three wise men, the kings from the East, can lead us into marking the beginning of the Christmas season. Let’s hold back the forces of commercialization and return to what’s really important. Let’s put Christ back into Christmas and joyfully proclaim, ‘I love Christmas.’

Merry Christmas everyone.