Well said. Thanks.

Hear hear.

Where does this new perjorative term "aggressive atheism" come from? It is appearing more and more in the conservative opinion columns in newspapers, along with "aggressive secularism". Is this yet another right-wing attack label, born in the USA, to be adopted uncritically in this country? What on earth is "aggressive" about striving to be inclusive rather than exclusive, especially in the expenditure of public monies that are contributed by all citizens, christians and non-christians alike.

People like Grace are the first to whinge and whine about discrimination and exclusiveness of any kind (and rightly so), except when it comes to Western culture and Christianity. People like Grace seem to believe we can only live in harmony in this country if we denigrate ourselves and our beliefs.

If we had more Mr. Aly's and less Ms. Pettigrew's we'd be alot better off.

Ms. Pettigrew's tid-bits just go to show that she has alot to learn about tolerance and inclusion.

Come off it Bozzie! I'm an atheist. I go along with Christmas, as a vital symbol of the culture to which I belong. If it was just about celebrating the Christian message, I wouldn't have a problem with it. But it's not - it's about commercialism, and splashing tinsel around the city. What's Christian about that? Maybe it would be genuinely inclusive if we concentrated on good works and helping those less fortunate than ourselves. You see, being atheist doesn't mean being immoral, or lacking in compassion.

Splashing tinsel around the city is the way our culture celebrates Christmas. I agree with you Naomi about the commercialism, as do most religious people, (I think). However that is capitalism which is how this country operates to the enormous benefit of everyone.

I haven't heard dear Clover or anyone else utter one word about commercialism. They talk about "offending" non-Christians and not forcing Christianity down peoples throats. "Seasons Greetings" and "Happy Holiday" cards doled out by weak politicians has nothing to do with commercialism either. Just a smug little attempt to take Christ out of Christmas.

Whilst not atheist I'm not exactly what you'd call religious either. However the basic philosophy of most religions is peace, love, charity and harmony. Messages that should be encouraged no matter where they come from.

Merry Christmas to all.