Thinking of Winter

I am not a Christian, nor do I adhere strictly to the Gregorian calendar, so this time of year can get a bit awkward.  I feel the intention when people say, "Merry Christmas," but it's not a sentiment I can return with the same meaning.  At least, not with the same words.  I've been struggling with how to phrase this exactly, and it seems I'm failing even now.  I don't exactly know how to express a "Merry Christmas" with the intention beyond religious connotation.  Nor can I say, "Happy Holidays" because theses days aren't necessarily any holier than any other.  Samhain, Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh - these are more akin to the times of year I celebrate, though I wouldn't necessarily consider myself pagan, either.  Ultimately, I would consider myself Taoist in philosophy.

So what does this time of year mean to me?

Somehow, through all of the commercialism and materialism, the "true meaning of Christmas" has survived - it is a time for sharing, and a time for love.  I find it interesting that a generous gift-giving holiday comes in the middle of Winter, the cycle of Death, but I suppose it's kind of appropriate.  People want to escape the harsh environment and wish themselves warmth - physical and emotional.  So while I don't necessarily believe in The Lord Our Savior Jesus Christ of Nazareth, or that he was born on Dec. 25 22BC, I do participate in the gift-giving ritual.

I'll have to ponder this a little further, but at least now I have some basic thoughts down.  Something to consider, something to think about.  More to come - stay tuned.