Christmas should not be taboo

It is distressing to see how the word "Christmas" is slowly being eradicated from the media world.

As a senior in high school, it concerns me that everywhere I look, Christmas trees are being replaced by "holiday trees." The idea of a holiday tree is ridiculous when everyone knows a tree is associated with Christmas, but the word "Christmas" has become too taboo for people to say.

I've grown up a Christian, but it does not offend me when I see a Jewish family celebrating Hanukkah. Why should anyone be offended by the celebration of what Christmas is really about?

Even if stores dared to have a "Christmas Sale," as opposed to the usual "Holiday Sale," that does not mean that they are forcing religious ideas on consumers.

We can't lose sight of the true meaning behind this season. Unfortunately, as appropriate as it is for Christmas, the nativity scene would never be seen in a store window, but gifts and shopping for the holiday is greatly promoted.

The baby Jesus is being forgotten and pushed aside by the commercial Santa. Christmas doesn't have to be forced on everyone, but people who do celebrate it should be able to do it publicly.

In some schools, talking about Christmas is frowned upon while Hanukkah and Kwanza are actually part of the curriculum. This season should be about harmoniously celebrating beliefs we have while not being blinded by the commercial aspect.

We can celebrate, but we can't forget the reason we are celebrating.

Holly Baker

Elk Grove Village