I find it a sad state of affairs when there exist elements set on eliminating the mention of Christmas in any advertising material during this festive holiday season. The mere exhibit of anything depicting Christmas decorations or nativity scenes is found offensive to some people and is being protested. Maybe I’m old school and used to addressing issues before the political correct pundits started hijacking free press, but by no means will you find me apologizing or refraining from using the term ‘Christmas’ during this season.

I along with other Christians acknowledge this season as one of the most important spiritual times in celebrating our religion. We are not ashamed of practicing what we consider freedom of religion. Contrary to what others may believe or feel, this season is all about love.

I am sorry if others are offended by Christians exhibiting innocent but ingratiating deference in honoring and praising Christ, whom we feel is the messiah, the son of God and the deliverer of our salvation. In fact, most Christians feel Christmas is the main reason for celebrating this holiday season. That’s our chosen belief and by no means are we trying to force anyone to adhere to our beliefs. That must be voluntary or of one’s own volition. Like anyone else practicing their religion, Christians wish that their practices and rituals be respected as long as they are not causing pain or physical abuse to others. Ours, like most religions, is about love and good will toward our fellow man.

If you feel offended seeing the word ‘Christmas’ exhibited or symbols associated with Christmas (Christmas trees, lights, cards, and nativity scenes), it is due to your own personal choice. That is unfortunate, but should not dictate change for those practicing Christians.

Frankly, I find it hard to understand those trying to find fault in those seeking to share and celebrate such a loving, festive, and giving time. The Christmas season resonates with good will, brotherly love, and world peace. It is beyond me how someone or some group can desecrate this message and find it offensive and insensitive to others. While there are other events taking place during this season, such as Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, participants should not have to apologize when individually advertising or addressing their activities or functions. No one is forcing involvement in participating in any of these events, although it can be a learning and rewarding experience to share in these holiday activities and functions. It is in expanding your cultural experiences that you grow and become more knowledgeable in understanding others as a whole.

Freedom of religion is a fundamental constitutional right. No one person or group of people have the right to prohibit or deter the peaceful operation of those exercising their religion. Some would say it is blasphemy to deny your God for the mere pressure of appeasing man.

This religious acceptance is within the spiritual realm of those truly practicing peace and good will toward humanity. Religious affiliation is personal and follows the adage ‘to each their own’ as long as your doctrine does not perpetuate harm, ill will or death to those who don’t accept or practice your religion. Common sense should tell you that practices causing harm or death to fellow human beings is not spiritual.

There exist maniacal forces altering and manipulating spiritual doctrine for self-serving and mundane purposes.

I can only hope that true followers of Christianity and lovers of religious freedom don’t allow the spirit of Christmas to be compromised or trivialized. It is no surprise that the forces of evil are working nonstop to take away any staples of righteousness, truth, and love in this world. We must be diligent and vigilant in our fight to sustain love and peace for the sake of humanity. I have no problem wishing everyone a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. I’m sorry if you find that offensive. I also wish those participating in Hanukah and Kwanzaa, the best with love.