The Huffington Post had an article today where they asked 15 prominent atheists from the UK what Christmas meant to them and if they would celebrate it. Almost all stated that they did celebrate it, some would go to church if asked by family members, and almost none objected to partaking in whatever festivities where happening. Only a couple objected to “celebrating” the holiday, as this, to them, would be a form of hypocrisy.

I was most pleasantly surprised to read what Richard Dawkins said. He stated:

Unlike many a false caricature of an atheist, I have no problem with Christmas and no desire to rain on the Christian parade. I enjoy Christmas carols, especially when sung by a great choir like that of New College, Oxford, or King’s College, Cambridge. But only real carols about Jesus, NOT fake carols about Santa or reindeer or the loathsome “Jingle Bells”.

I am faintly amused by the reflection that, even if Jesus existed (which is controversial among scholars) no scholar takes seriously
the legend that he was born of a virgin in Bethlehem. That was entirely invented to fulfil misunderstood Old Testament prophecies.

I’m with Dawkins and the majority of this group. I’m an atheist and I look forward to the holiday season. For me, it means TIME OF WORK (that’s probably the biggest plus), time with family besides my own, and a hell of a lot of spending money. Yeah, that’s the only drawback for me, all the shopping and searching and wrapping and overall mess! If we could do away with presents, then the holiday season and Christmas would be even more awesome! But I get it – the kids love gifts so we indulge.

To me, there is nothing hypocritical, complicated or messy about putting up some lights, a tree, overindulging in food with friends and family and exchanging gifts; it’s all a good time. Christmas and the holiday season are good for recharging the ‘ol batteries and just seeing happy kids running around make it all worth it. Yeah, I admit it: I enjoy the hell out of it all!
Therefore, even though I know I can be a bit overbearing when it comes to religion and the whole reason thing, I’m good with Christmas and I don’t rain on anyone’s parade. If someone tells me Merry Christmas, I say it right back and I mean it – I want everyone to enjoy family, friends, food, booze and good coffee!

So, 2015 is almost done. It was a bit of a tough year, I’ll admit, but nothing to cry home about. I’m looking forward to making 2016 the best year yet and I wish the same to you, my lone reader. Yes, you!

I’m wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.