The Right Tree

It's not a 'holiday' tree. It's not a blue spruce, a Norway pine, Scotch pine or even a fir tree. Nope. The Christian right, led by spokesman Jerry Falwell want you to know they are serious about putting the 'Christ' back in Christmas and you'd better be, too. Liberty Counsel (an organization with the tag line, "Restoring the Culture One Case at a Time) and Rev. Falwell have marshalled an armada of attorneys to ensure that the message comes across loud and clear.

Christians have a right to celebrate Christmas with a Christmas tree.

Now, aside from the fact that early Christians stole the pagan winter solstice celebration from the Druids - decked-out tree and all - possession is, as the saying goes, nine-tenths of the law. If they want their fantasy birthday party for Jesus, in a manger, under a Christmas tree, in Bethlehem, with snow falling and ghostly white angels singing, I say fine. It would be a big improvement over the engorged retail spending spree the holiday, OOPS!, Christmas has become across our Wal-Malled land.

Personally, I think the Puritans had the right idea. They banned ALL celebration, merry-making, decorating and gift-giving on December 25th in order to retain focus on the religious aspect of the day. How about that, Jerry? Care to stand between the fanatic faithful and a blue-light special to restore that culture?