Sunday in Outer Blogness: Merry Christmas Edition!!!

Merry Christmas everyone!! I hope you’re all celebrating this special day in the traditional way, like I am — by constructing a million Lego sets!!

Bloggers this past week covered all of the possible aspects of the Christmas celebration — including tithing settlement! Some people analyzed holiday classics (such as A Christmas Carol and Rudolph), some wrote new riffs on old Christmas favorites (like Yes, Virginia, Charlie Brown’s Christmas Special, and T’was the Night before Christmas), and some people invented new ones (like these songs). And which holiday(s) are we celebrating anyway? Smithmas anyone? There’s something to be said for being inclusive while spreading good cheer!! And what to give and receive? Then there’s the question of whether to tell your kids about Santa. Or about Mary’s virginity. Some people shared recipes, memories, and profound reflections while many others posted their happy holiday images.

Some of the most interesting posts, though, are the tales of how we’re celebrating (and getting along with family — in all its varieties). Holiday stress has caused a lot of bad Christmas memories, so low-key may be the secret to success. Just chill and enjoy the lights at Temple Square. Ain’t No Mo No Mo’s celebration probably reflects where a lot of us are at:

So as I celebrate the Christmas season this year, I’m not necessarily celebrating the birth of Christ. I’m celebrating the closeness I feel with my family and friends. I’m celebrating the opportunity to prepare good food and feed people I love. I’m celebrating the opportunity I have to thank people for their kindness and service.

While some people are celebrating with fellow non-believers or are having a great time with family, unfortunately, others not so much. Some are having a difficult Christmas — including getting thrown out of the house! Another reason to remember the less fortunate and work to make this world a better place!

Now, since not everybody is observing a holiday today, I’d like to include one totally unrelated discussion topic that came up quite a few times in blogspace this past week: what about when one person’s rights infringe on someone else’s? Specific examples include the following: Your religion prevents you from counselling gay people (without condemning them), coming into contact with women on the bus or at work, reporting abuse, allowing trangendered people to use the fitting room, respecting people’s privacy, and showing your face when testifying against someone in court. Actually, I note a strange pattern in all these conflicts…

Whew, back to my Lego sets!! Happy Holidays!!