Come the Spirit of Christmas

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R._N._Taber

Some people think I am an oddball because I don’t celebrate Christmas. Well, for a start, I do not subscribe to any religion. Yet, as regular readers well know, I like to think I have a strong sense of spirituality although I fake it from my relationship with nature rather than religion.

I often spend Christmas Day on my own and enjoy watching some great DVDs and not having to make an effort for anyone. Selfish, perhaps, but this time of year brings back many bad and sad memories, and I prefer to get through it in my own way. Yes, I may get a wee moody now and then, but on the whole I can relax and do my own thing in my own way without any well-meaning people telling me what I should do or how I should feel.

Even so, a part of me relates to what is meant to be a celebration of peace and love and togetherness. (Could it be an element of pagan in me, having been born on the winter solstice…?)

Whatever, I wish all family, friends and readers peace and love now and always. (Regular readers will know that I have nothing in common with my own family and those with whom I have got on well, loved even, are no longer with us, but that doesn't mean I don't wish the rest every happiness.)

As for the Christian message of peace and goodwill to all ... would that it it prevail always, and across all socio-cultural-religious divisions. Ah, but if only ... !

COME , SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

What does Christmas mean to me?

peace and love need no pretty fir tree,

no decorations, no Christmas fare,

only to spread goodwill everywhere 

What does Christmas mean to me?

The sum of all I am that’s my history;

trying to do better by each new day,

and be a better person, come what may

What does Christmas mean to me?

Beggars on streets (give generously);

No in-fighting on wings of prayer,

world religions feeding on its despair

What does Christmas mean to me?

(A cure for HIV-Aids… oh, let it be!)

Let every day be a Christmas Day,

respecting one another, straight or gay

What does Christmas mean to you?

But listen to your heart and answer true

(else we become our worst enemy);

peace and love need no Christmas tree

Copyright R. N. Taber 2007; 2014