So it is pretty obvious that the American Christmas and the Christain Christmas are in direct opposition. One embraces the spend all, charge all, spoil all belief. The other embraces the non-consumerist point of view. One credits Santa Claus. One credits Jesus. I know that many Christian families celebrate both aspects of Christmas, but our family is having a difficult time figuring out where our family will fall on that continuum.
Do I throw away all the 'traditional American' view of Christmas. Do we not do Santa? Do we not buy gifts? I am not so convinced.
This year, Carson is too young to know the difference, but next year he will be able to better comprehend what our ideals/traditions are surrounding Christmas. I enjoy giving gifts. I enjoy getting together with family. I love going to church on Christmas Eve. These are all things we hold dear. Like the Nativity story. Like baby Jesus. These are all things he will be exposed to the most. I am sure, he will hear about Santa too. However, none of his gifts will be from Santa. His behavior won't depend on "Santa watching". He is going to get his picture on Santa's lap. Probably see a few classic Santa films--like Rudolph or the Grinch. And probably sing a few Santa songs. Although he will be exposed to Santa and this idea of Christmas, I hope he realizes what is most important about our celebration of this date, the birth of the Lord.
So many people are so passionate about their view of Christmas. They will ream you a new one about not teaching about Santa. Or about allowing your child to believe in Santa. I don't care. This is how I feel. For me and our family, Christ will be the center of Christmas.
