December is expected to be the joyous time of year. At least children expect it. It can be stressful for many, especially City Managers, when the religious nutcakes begin the annual Menorah/Christmas tree battle. Thankfully, it has been relatively quiet here in Coconut Creek. During my seven year stint in “old” Tamarac, it was torture.
Legal squabbling aside, competing factions would argue over the size, height, location, and artistic and monetary value of the Christmas tree and the menorah. I remember that in one year, we had apparently resolved the height disparity by buying a bigger menorah and putting it atop some drape-covered boxes to make it equal in height to the tree. Unfortunately, the tree had not yet been decorated. When an ornament was added, the battle was prolonged. It was comical to many but the tension certainly put a damper on what should have been a happy season.
It’s unfortunate that some of us dwell on our differences instead of celebrating them and reflecting more on our remarkable similarities. As every year ends, three of the dominant religions in the world embrace important religious holidays that involve gift-giving and thanksgiving. In December, Christians celebrate the birth of a Jewish baby on Christmas. Jews celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. For Muslims, while Ramadan ended on October 13th, Christ is still recognized as one of God’s prophets and Christmas marks the birth of a divinely inspired messenger.
Excessive commercialism aside, our feelings as we celebrate this holiday season have their roots in our religious history. For all of us, the real meaning of the season shouldn’t stop at the doors to the church, synagogue or mosque.
Happily, the following story gives me hope:
A smartly dressed man, wearing a black frock coat, walked into the religious articles section of a large New York department store and asked the clerk if she had a fine quality Tallith (prayer shawl). She quickly disappeared into the backroom and emerged with a black sealed box. When it was opened, his eyes lit up. Inside was a Tallith unique among Tallithim. Not a skimpy type with flimsy tassels, but an immense heavy shawl with thick black stripes and tassels weighted with heavy knots. And when she noted that it had been made in the Holy Land …well…that settled it. Yes! He would take it. Money was no object.
“Just one detail, though,” he concluded. “Please wrap it in colorful paper. I’m giving it as a Christmas present!”
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As one year ends and another begins, I offer this traditional Irish wish:
May you never forget what is worth remembering
Or remember what is best to forget!
2008 Bring it on! Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! And a healthy and Happy New Year to all!
Slainte!
John