This reference provides a much more realistic and universal Understanding of the significance of Light in all cultures in all times and places.
http://global.adidam.org/books/danavira-mela/3

There is a reason why the greatest story ever told is given that label! Our only evidence of the veracity of this account comes to us in serially plagiarized and hugely embellished works only written years after by non-witnesses apparently relying on an alleged oral history?

Yet accepted as absolute gospel by the unquestioning intellectual slaves of "Christianity"? Who for the most part live in an echo chamber that just reinforces an entirely unexamined view of their inculcated from birth, usually, belief system?

For mine, the real message of Chrismas is love of friends and family and that's is what the ritualised exchange of gifts declares along with celebratory feasting etc.
Alan B.

You say it so well, AlanB. But, in my view, a 'belief system' is hard to define, and cultural events often merge with stories from a background of dreams and myths. Keep the two separate - don't we all need something to believe in, which is sacred and requires contemplation, AND, as you say, the closeness of friendship? I can live with that.

I have to say I could do without being lectured on Christmas, Anzac Day, and Australia Day year, after year after year .....

I believe in a creator, a life beyond this one and a purpose for that life, beyond that the works of men allegedly divinely inspired have one thing in common.

An addicted need to control others as for the most part, by self-appointed judges.

As for the Christain belief system as based upon a book?

Given how much influence Constantine had on the "allowed" works that make up the book and current Christian practice.

I choose to remain outside that particular paganised tent! Along with a litany of pagan rituals and half-truths that have no semblance whatsoever with early esoteric Christian belief and practise!

I was a very devout altar boy and but for a more inquiring mind than many, may have become a priest.

Priests who first command us to love Jesus then claim to stand in his shoes, Therefore and by implication, we should love and obey the priesthood and a Pope who allegedly, cannot err.

And the reason that for so long the "Church" was a safe haven for practising paedophiles. And we should treat that as sacred!?
Alan B.

Sydneysiders go beserk and suffer injuries over free gifts in shopping centre. The Christmas spirit lives!