Hearts of the City

A rotating panel of experts from the worlds of philosophy, psychology and religion offer their perspective on the dilemmas that come with living in Southern California.

*

Today’s question: In the midst of all the merriment, commercialization, heightened expectations--and sometimes alienation--that come with the holiday season, what’s your advice for coping?

*

Dr. Hassan Hathout

Author of books on Islamic ethics and a spokesman for the Islamic Center of Southern California in Los Angeles.

“Perhaps it will be good for everyone during the rush of the season to carve out some time during which to hold on to one’s individuality rather than be carried away with the flock. Some sober and serious thinking should be devoted to the content of the celebration beyond its recreative and commercial aspects. I am sure, for example, that if Jesus is seriously remembered at Christmas, it will modify many a behavioral pattern. It is ethical to also consider those whose circumstances do not allow them to celebrate, on account of calamity or deprivation. And then, it will be all right to enjoy and share the celebration in a way that maintains your self-respect and poses no harm on others.”

*

Father Thomas Rausch

Chairman of the department of theology, Loyola Marymount University.

“Commercial America begins the holiday season so early that by the time Christmas finally comes, our hearts are often as dry as our wreaths and trees. We need to remind ourselves that these holidays are really holy days. How can we get out of ourselves and recapture something of the mystery? Take some time out. Gather your family around the crib and spend some time in wonder and quiet prayer. Write a long letter to a friend. Listen to someone else’s story. Help someone less fortunate to share in the joy of the season. There can be no peace on Earth without peace in our hearts.”

*

Rabbi Joel Rembaum

Senior rabbi, Temple Beth Am, Los Angeles and immediate past president of the Board of Rabbis of Southern California.

“I am a Jew and, consequently, have no personal investment in the ‘holiday season.’ While the Jewish festival of Hanukkah often falls at this time of year, it does not carry with it the same religious or cultural weight for the Jewish community as Christmas does for the Christian community. As a rabbi I encourage my people to find spiritual enrichment in the celebration of the various Jewish holy days. I would hope that the Christian community would, likewise, find in Christmas a powerful spiritual message that leads to such an appreciation.”