We hold on to traditions because they remind us of happy moments shared, because they are familiar and because they give us a sense of security. We also many times forget why we do the things we do -- why we buy presents, put up a tree and sing carols. I was telling a jewish friend of mine who told me he loves Christmas music that you'd have to be numb to dislike the festivities and traditions that come with Christmas... But what is this season really all about?
I'm not a "christian" anymore because to define myself by that label would be associating myself with some embarrassing behavior and some questionable characters; it's sad really. Moreover, if I were to openly talk to the "average" christian about my thoughts on some of the most controversial topics in theology they would, for the most part, probably call me a blasphemer... So I just reserve those hot topics to the limited few who are open and aren't easily scandalized. However, today I do want to share the true important things that make me who I am-- a Jesus Freak. You see, that may define me best. It's not a religion to me, because religious people (in general) make me nauseous. I read about Him because I was raised a Christian and I was taught to fear His wrath and look to him as someone who would judgingly expect me to follow every red letter.
Years later I see it all a bit different. I have read about many noble men I admire for different reasons and whose examples and teachings are worth looking up to -- Ghandi, Budah. And even men like Alexander The Great have had great impact in history and have shown character to be admired and even follow. So why Jesus? He impacted me most because he always showed a great balance of power and humility, love and discipline, respect and irreverence, drive and selflessness, strength and tenderness, sorrow and joy. To me He is the ultimate human, maybe that's why he was also God... maybe that's what the scriptures mean. Either way, I try to follow his example -- to love others as myself, to forego superficiality for the greater good and to be open to ALL kinds of people regardless of the labels that society defines them with. Selfless, humble and loving -- my aspiration and the colors of Christmas.
