Reflections of Christmases Past, Present

Always, at this time of year, there are letters of outrage over the commercialization of Christmas. They often end with some comment about remembering whose birthday it is. I also deplore the commercialization of Christmas, the loss of traditions, and the ugly greed that seems to overcome retailers at this time of year, yet I also deplore the idea of making Christmas a purely religious holiday.

The origins of Christmas have little to do with Christianity. Most of the traditions we hold so dear predate the Christian era and are variations of pagan rites which Christmas adopted from various areas as the religion spread.

I love Christmastime, the lights, the good will, the songs, the renewal of friendships. All people love a holiday, but let’s not forget that Christmas is a secular holiday as well as a religious one.

PEGGY CALKINS

Los Angeles