I love this time of year. People are happy, a little more giving and the world seems to have more peace and love. But over the years, I’ve noticed a change. The change was brought to my attention many years back as I went to visit my friend Bob in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. I went to wish him a Merry Christmas but instead caught myself using the “politically correct” term, Happy Holidays. After our greetings and brief exchange, Bob mentioned that no one says Merry Christmas any more. I looked at him and shook my head in agreement, as we simultaneously said, “Merry Christmas” to each other in unison. I have never forgotten that day.
As many countries and the world become more culturally integrated, an envelope has been created to not offend anyone. That envelope is the “politically correct” safe mode. I think that our efforts at integration have created thin eggshells for us to walk on that have deterred us from the true meaning of Christmas. I am not speaking about the commercialization that Christmas has morphed into, I am referring to the love, hope and dreams that Christmas brings in memory of the birth of Jesus Christ.
On a global picture, it’s not just about Christmas. It could be one of hundreds or so celebrations in honor of cultural deities and traditions. It is about respecting other cultures celebrating their Source of Divine Presence and allowing them to share the love and joy in their tradition whether or not you celebrate that occasion. Without peace between religions there can never be peace in the world.
My concern is for the next generation of the stewards of this world, our children. Not just our biological children but all children of the world. I do not see the hope and inspiration I saw growing up as a child in our children today. Yes there are many organizations, people and communities that are doing a fantastic job providing hope and inspiration. I am calling for a more unified, cohesive, global effort to move forward in using Christmas as a spring-board to start reviving love, respect, hope and peace among all cultures.
I love the meaning of Namaste. The word Namaste, originating out of India, is a greeting or salutation used when meeting someone. Although the meanings vary, I interpret it to be the welcoming and honoring of Spirit within you.
Imagine having this energy when others are celebrating their cultural holiday events. Allowing others to share their beliefs and for us to understand a little more about our neighbors, friends, co-workers and even strangers allows them to do the same. As we learn more, we invite love, peace, hope and understanding.
As a leader in your business, work or family, I am inviting you to bring the words “Merry Christmas” back as a catalyst to allow others to so the same in their own celebrations. Even if you do not celebrate Christmas, by returning those words to someone that does, means you honor and respect their love for their Source of Divine Presence and accept their gift of love, peace and joy.
Life wouldn’t be the same with Santa Claus saying, “HO, HO, HO Happy Holidays..”
With this, I wish you a Merry Christmas.
With Love and Respect,
Jeff
