Practice the true meaning of Christmas

'Tis the season for the annual controversy about wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. It is an appropriate time, chosen arbitrarily by Christians, to promote peace on Earth and good will to men.

Let us be mindful that Jesus never forced himself on anyone. Instead, he fed the hungry, healed the sick, forgave sins, raised the dead, loved children, accepted the hospitality and friendship of women, stood for justice, loved mercy and walked humbly to his death.

Perhaps a more authentic and attractive celebration of his birth would be to join people of all faiths in feeding the hungry (Salvation Army), housing the homeless (Habitat for Humanity), visiting the sick (hospice), etc., as beautiful gifts in celebration rather than our gaudy displays and orgies of shopping. We are free as individuals to express our greetings of love and joy in the spirit of inclusive reverence for all of God's creation.

Mary A. Klotzbach

Independence