Now, you know how I feel about Christmas, particularly contrary views concerning one of the best days of the year, so it is only natural that I become inflamed over this (thank you, LGF). Operation Christmas Child, a project spearheaded by a sectarian organisation called the Samaritan's Purse, has decided against any Christian flair regarding their presents to Muslim countries, meaning that there would be no items that are blatantly Christian and, in this case, Christmas-like in their appearance. Some people may think this is a correct swing in the multi-cultural direction but I think it is a big mistake.
In countries that profess cultural pluralism, there should be no reason why anyone objects to any holiday. People are different and will do things differently from someone else. Deal with it.
As a Christian organisation, Samaritan's Purse should not lose sight of its mission, nor should it abandon Christian values or sentiments for the sake of a few obviously picky beggars (funny how today's reading in Mass was the widow's mite).
Leading up to my next point, beggars CAN'T be chooses. Ever. If one has nothing then it should not matter who gives one anything. I doubt North Koreans resent the aid that the Japanese give them (though, not so much now, due to the nuclear crisis).
It seems the vastly cash-strapped Muslims can't (or won't) look after their own, leaving the burden to other less Muslim (Christian/Jewish/Buddhist) countries, individuals and organisations to look after their downtrodden despite the scorn, the danger and who can forget the words of the prophet: Let not the believers take disbelievers for their friends in preference to believers. Whoso doeth that hath no connection with Allah unless (it be) that ye but guard yourselves against them, taking (as it were) security. Allah biddeth you beware (only) of Himself. Unto Allah is the journeying.
Well, if that's the case, how about I give nothing? At least someone would have a reason not to like me (aside from the fact that I'm an educated Christian female who makes her own living independant from a male). Yes, the situation is difficult because children are involved but their lot in life has long since been decided by the whims of wicked men no one in any position of power will do anything about.
Santa is coming to town, but not Jakarta.
