[Republished and tweeked a bit from 2008. Someone requested this so here it is:]
Right after Thanksgiving each year, I start getting a new crop of War on Christmas emails, all lamenting the nasty liberals' attempt to distort the "true meaning of Christmas." The silly pastor in Dallas focusing on a list of establishments that do not overtly say "Merry Chirstmas." It always gets my ire up first thing in the morning when I check my mail. Bah Humbug!
A couple of years ago, I decided I was tired of letting these people get under my skin, so I worked up a positive response. Then I saved and used it several times that year - and each year since. I keep it handy to click and reply at once.
Since I am NOT a fan of copied chain emails and try to maintain anonymity, I won't post the exact version, but it goes something like this:
You are absolutely right! Each year the Christmas season drifts farther and farther away from its true meaning. (Since I'm Christian and these emails presumedly come from Christians, I add "--the unconditional love of God for all mankind and the wish for Goodwill to All") Christmas has become entirely too focused on materialism, garish light displays and searches for this year's "perfect gift." We already have the Perfect Gift.
In an effort to help our family celebrate the true spirit of Christmas, we save up each year to make donations to our favorite organizations. Yes, the boys get to vote, too. Here is a list of some we hold close to our hearts:
[insert direct links to charities. I usually include Habitat for Humanity, area food banks, utility assistance programs, homeless shelters, no-kill animal shelters, etc. Also a plug for sponsoring local children with a toy and some warm clothes. A reminder that local organizations all report more than twice the usual number of families signed up for assistance, with fewer donors this year.]
Doing what little we can helps our family to remember the loving part of Christmas - its true meaning. If you like this idea, please feel free to add your own favorites and forward this to all of your friends and family.
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me...I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."
I don't know if any of the recipients take it to heart, but it always makes me feel better. Who knows, it might result in a few dollars for a good cause.
And I always smile when I hit "reply to all."
Cheers!