The screen of a television set brings me images of imprisoned cats and dogs with pleading in their eyes. The emotional voice of their human advocate urges me to give a home to one of these appealing creatures that is facing a gentle death because too many of its kind are unwanted. I can't respond. No pet has been a part of our household since the demise of the delightfully demented cat that helped my wife and me to raise our children. There are other considerations now. One is the realization that habitat destruction is bringing about the loss of wild creatures which are essential food sources in places more primitive than the part of the planet most Canadians occupy. The largest consideration, however, is the realization Canadians spent 1.9 billion US for pet care and only 1.1 billions in donations that helped to ease the suffering of homeless, starving and diseased human beings at home and abroad (2009 figures). We spend even more on recreation.
There has never been a Christmas season in which I have felt so overwhelmed by this world's tawdry entertainments. While shopping, I heard a modern female singer putting her own brand on Gloria in Excelsis Deo. I am sure she has no conception of how much her caterwauling insults the memory of the composer of the tune. Nor, I suspect, has she any understanding of the lyrics or even a realization that the season now referred to as "happy holidays" has its origins in religion.
Whether we subscribe to the faith or not, nobody can deny Christmas is supposed to be the celebration of Christ's birthday. The traditional music of that celebration is a part of my most cherished memories. So is candle light glistening on the blown glass ornaments hanging from a real evergreen tree, crepe paper streamers of red and green, and the jingling of bells from a passing horse-drawn sleigh. I also remember with regret the big metal boxes filled with English toffee and chocolate caramels, a pleasure now denied to me by diabetes. Even though the mindless cruelties of the Great Depression were not yet over, the Christmas season brought a respite of peace, hope and joy.
Our outdoor decorations consist of one plastic Santa Claus and a six foot string of lights. I am amazed by the opulent displays of lights constructed by people whose next presence in church - whenever it comes - will be in an ornate box.
Even though I am a firm believer in the separation of church and state, I am angered by the proponents of political correctness, who seem to have too much influence in the halls of government. If the erosion continues unabated, governments will erase all references to Christianity from our laws and national monuments. The country will be no better for it. Downplaying Christian symbolism is not a favour granted to the atheists among us. In any religious context, it is hard to hurt the feelings of an atheist. Instead, governments are being too delicate in their relationships with newcomers who bring their own gods and holy teachings with them. Having the freedom to practice their own religions should be all they require.
Although no biblical literalist, the birth of Jesus is at the core of my beliefs. Not only is Christianity my recorded religion; it is the most important element of my culture and heritage.
For various reasons, none of our loved ones will be with us on Christmas Day. We have found a traditional bird small enough for two. We made a total of what we normally spend on gifts and have donated it to worthwhile charities. The good feeling which comes with doing this is a gift we take for ourselves.
