EDITORIAL: The gist of Christmas lost

’Twas the season of Christmas, and all through the land

Were signs and symbols some folks couldn’t stand.

The evergreen conifer many decorate with glee,

But don’t you dare call it a Christmas tree.

Heaven forbid a Nativity in the town square

For fear the grievance mongers soon would be there.

Meanwhile the choirs at many a public school

Are told no religious carols — those just aren’t that cool.

Don’t say “Christmas Concert,” for that’s full of shame.

“Winter Festival” — now that’s the new name!

A California judge, trying to squelch more good will,

Orders a war memorial cross removed from a hill.

The postman leaves Christmas off his “holiday stamp” fliers.

Forget the reason for the season — they’re Christmas deniers!

This despite Jesus’ birth named a federal holiday

On which those in government get a day off with pay.

For that fact, they should shout “Merry Christmas!” with glee,

If we can say that anymore, if we can just let it be.

Jolly old Santa gives grouches no pause,

But don’t get them started on the Establishment Clause.

A passive display is not proselytizing.

State-sponsored religion? They’re fantasizing!

How did we reach this point, where it all ran amok?

Christmas got run over by the politically correct truck.

It’s easy to forget, amidst Christmas bashing,

That the faithful do great things — just smashing!

Every day in this so-called city of sin

Christians donate and volunteer, creating a win-win.

Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Las Vegas Rescue Mission,

Where helping the needy is year-round tradition.

At countless valley churches, the downtrodden do enter,

For those touched by AIDS, there’s the Saint Therese Center.

Far too numerous to mention are so many others

Helping our struggling sisters and brothers.

So the need to kick Christmas right out of the season

Seems illogical, overzealous and lacking in reason.

’Tis the season for giving, to that we attest,

So to all grievance seekers, try giving it a rest.

Spread some charity and cheer, and let go of the spite.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!