Christmas - and again, Christmas vs Xmas?

It's only October and for the past month the stores have already been reminding us that Christmas is on its way.

Here is my 'annual reminder' - my thoughts on the ever-increasing commercial use of a word... an observation regarding Christmas that has become very clear to me over the years, and to which I have become rather sensitive.

It is this: Do you “celebrate Christmas”, or do you “Celebrate Xmas”? It doesn’t require much thinking to get my point here. Writing the word “Xmas” may seem like an abbreviation, but look at it again. “Christ” has been crossed out! This is indicative of how many people go about the ritual of this should-be holy celebration. Many exchange gifts, enjoy the feast and holiday while ignoring the fundamental reason for there being a celebration in the first place. Many don’t even acknowledge Christ, yet get caught up in the excitement and festive atmosphere. Shop owners exploit the season and one is left wondering whether Christmas has now become merely another commercial marketing gimmick. However, it’s not my place to go on about this issue – but please remember that the whole reason for Christmas was the birth of a Savior over 2000 years ago. Please acknowledge that. A good start could be by writing “Happy Christmas” instead of “happy xmas”. It really doesn’t take that much more effort to write the word out in full!

Now, having had my say, let’s get into the mood of the season: Goodwill and Cheer to All Men!

e