This editorial is a few weeks early, because something happened. 

     Usually, South Boston Online writes editorials supporting the observance of, and the true meaning of Christmas in December.  Last year, we published Christmas editorials on December 1 and December 22.  In 2004, we editorialized in our December 23 issue.

     But something has happened.  In the November 6 issue of the Boston Herald, there was a page two article on the Marley brothers from Lynnfield.  Kevin and Robert Marley are attempting to bring back the use of the word “Christmas” (as in “Merry Christmas”).  They plan to set up a website, and if necessary, to reinforce their convictions with picketing and boycotts of stores and malls that don’t use the word “Christmas”. 

     The Marley brothers are aptly named.  “Marley” was also the name of the first ghost that Scrooge saw in Dickens’ classic tale, “A Christmas Carol”.  Marley was Scrooge’s dead partner, who appeared to him loaded down with clanking cash boxes, and who warned Scrooge that he was doomed unless he opened his heart to the Christmas spirit.  How symbolic of today’s stores that listen only to the ringing of their cash registers.  ‘Tis a marvelous coincidence, it is.

     We are all for the Marley brothers’ efforts.  The average spending on Christmas shopping this year will be close to $1,000 per capita.  To our readers:  Spend your money wisely – patronize only those malls and merchants who recognize that it’s Christmastime.

     Some argue that Christmas has become too commercial.  Well, if commercialism obscures the peace and joy that should accompany Christmas, it has.  But be aware of the disconnect here.  Over half the retailers in America would go out of business if it weren’t for Christmas shopping, yet the very merchants who depend upon your purchases at Christmastime often refuse to use the word “Christmas” in their displays and advertisements.  Go figure!

     Many argue that celebrating Christmas is “exclusionary”, whatever that rather bland word means.  Other nations don’t follow that principle, however.  These nations observe their own major religious holidays without a second thought.  Even highly secular nations like France observe many religious holidays, including Easter, Ascension, and Christmas itself, of course.

     Here’s a good test.  If someone objects to Christmas observances, ask him if he plans to go to work that day.  If he does, now that’s a real protest.  Ask the various groups who are against Christmas celebrations because these are “politically incorrect”, if they plan a “politically correct” campaign against taking December 25 off.  Can you imagine someone running for elected office on a platform of banning Christmas?  That deserves a big “Ho, ho, ho!” 

     Or for that matter, banning Mardi Gras, Chinese New Year, Hannukah, Halloween, Kwanzaa, and Thanksgiving – all publicly observed holidays with strong, identifiable religious roots.  Along with Christmas, these are celebrations at which everyone from anywhere is welcome.  These are America’s religious traditions.  They demonstrate the true meaning of diversity.

     There’s little use in talking with those who are determined to play down the joys of Christmastime.  If you call them Puritans, or Grinches, or Scrooges, they’re offended, but that’s what they are.  South Boston Online has no idea what these people have against joyful seasons.  It’s tempting to tell them to “stick a fork in it” or to “get a life”, but we plan something more tangible and (we hope) more enjoyable.  Please refer to our Open House announcement below.  We’d love to see you.

     Why else do people celebrate Christmas?  Because it’s an enjoyable and wonderful tradition.  Because that’s what all our calendars say December 25 is.  We don’t need any more reasons.

     So please accept our (early) wishes for a Merry Christmas.  And whatever your persuasion, we hope you have a marvelous and memorable Holiday Season.