Saturday, December 22, 2007

Three Days Before Christmas



The days of Advent are winding down. Soon, it will be Christmas Day, not the Generic, Non-Specific Winter Holiday. I've asked people to tell me what Christmas is and I've gotten some pretty original answers. Thanks for that.




Nevertheless, I think Linus got it right.




I also think Ralphie got it right.




Another thing that screams Christmas is a killer robot personality test (I am Gigantor). Would Christmas be Christmas without Robot Tae Kwon V or Optimus Prime? I don't think so.




God bless us, everyone!

Monday, December 10, 2007

What Is Christmas?

Sometimes I feel like I'm talking to a tree. I would say a Christmas tree as it seems seasonal and appropriate but then someone would complain that the word "Christmas" is exclusionary, just like if I was to state with absolute certainty that the roots of Christmas are Christian. It is one thing if people include reindeer or "Jingle Bells" in their celebrations, it is something else if people deny Christmas' roots or its existence. Imagine the outcry if someone tried to tack on Christian or Muslim overtones to Buddha's birthday, or if someone railed against the prevailing culture just because of Dewali. Such things are absurd. I personally think it is a sign of cultural, social and mental immaturity to do such things.
So if Christmas is some generic winter holiday, what are its roots? What does it mean? I don't want to hear it's about presents and family and egg nog and throwing up in front of the Christmas tree or whatever. Those are things you see or do at Christmas. What does it mean?
The best answer will win you...some fresh air...in Barbados!
(CAVEAT: offer will not be honoured)