“Isn’t there anyone who knows the true meaning of Christmas?” exclaims our beloved yet perpetually melancholic character, Charlie Brown, his arms wide open in frustration. This moment captures the essence of those animated holiday specials that evoke warmth and nostalgia. Creators like Seuss and Schultz certainly understood how to tug at our heartstrings.
Enter Linus, clutching his questionable hygiene security blanket, ready to enlighten Charlie Brown. “Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about,” he declares before reciting a Bible verse about the birth of Jesus. Each time, I find myself lost in translation, much like Charlie Brown, as Linus’s words float over my head, reminiscent of the adults in the show who communicate in trombone-like tones.
Coming from a mixed-religion background, I can relate to Charlie Brown’s confusion. My mother’s lineage is Jewish, while my father’s roots lie in Episcopalian—or possibly Methodist traditions. Consequently, I don’t just celebrate Christmas; I also observe Hanukkah. Yes, I’m bi-religious. I embrace both sides, leading to a plethora of memes and bumper stickers suggesting I’m doing the holidays all wrong.
I don’t attend church or temple regularly. Much of my understanding of Hanukkah comes from a fun Rugrats episode, and my biblical knowledge is mostly derived from snippets heard on cable news and a few Simpsons parodies. According to various bumper stickers and social media posts, I’m seen as an abomination, supposedly contributing to the decline of our so-called Christian society.
I must dispute these claims. First off, if Jesus were the reason for the season, we wouldn’t be celebrating in December, a date likely chosen to align with pagan Winter Solstice traditions. We also wouldn’t be “decking the halls with boughs of holly,” another practice the early Church sought to suppress. Secondly, the call to “Put the Christ back in Christmas” doesn’t resonate with me.
For those who view Christmas as a religious commemoration of their faith’s figurehead, that’s wonderful! Celebrate it in your way. However, it’s essential to recognize that not everyone shares that perspective. For me, the holiday season involves lighting the menorah candles as my non-Jewish dad sings a hilariously off-key “Happy Chanukah to you!” followed by a family group hug. It’s my grandfather reciting blessings over the candles while we savor latkes and applesauce.
For my friend, Christmas means putting on a family pageant featuring news reporters and even Spiderman. Another friend gathers all the kids for a night of excitement, lining them up by age to reveal presents under the tree. And then there’s the tradition of hiding a pickle ornament on the tree for everyone to find.
I find holiday traditions to be inherently odd but also uniquely charming—just like Charlie Brown’s scraggly Christmas tree. The essence of Christmas isn’t encapsulated in Linus’s biblical reference; it’s embodied in that quirky, imperfect tree, which becomes vibrant and beautiful through the love and effort of Charlie Brown’s quirky family.
Ultimately, to me, the holidays center around family. It’s about cherishing those we hold dear, whether they are related by blood or chosen bonds, and celebrating them in any way we can. As for religious traditions, they serve as a tribute to my ancestors. Lighting the candles on my well-loved menorah, which belonged to my great-grandmother, connects me to her history and the rituals she performed every 25th of Kislev. Similarly, opening presents under the tree honors the customs passed down through generations. While some might view my dual religious observance as contradictory, it feels entirely coherent to me.
I respect those who embrace the Christ in Christmas or hold spiritual beliefs tied to the holidays. Linus’s heartfelt recitation of Luke 2:4-14 undoubtedly brings joy to many, including the Schultz family during their annual gatherings. However, it makes me uneasy when others try to impose their beliefs on everyone. There’s an outcry from some when stores say “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.” The phrase “Happy Holidays” is inclusive, acknowledging the diverse array of celebrations, from Christmas to Kwanzaa, and even Festivus. It’s a universal greeting that recognizes all who enjoy the festive season, including those who simply appreciate the holiday lights at Rockefeller Center. Personally, I believe that Jesus would endorse such inclusivity. After all, he likely celebrated Hanukkah too. So, this holiday season, place the Christ wherever you wish.
In summary, the holidays hold different meanings for everyone, and embracing the diversity of celebrations enriches our experiences. Whether you’re lighting menorah candles or decorating a Christmas tree, what truly matters is the love and connection shared with family and friends.
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