At an age far too young to decide whether or not I believed in god I believed in Christmas.
I heard the story of Jesus' birth - even played a part in a school play (I think I was an ass. No, literally -I played the head). But it never made much sense to me. Although I remember having my first major crush on the girl who played Mary even though I had no idea what a virgin was.
But I always liked Christmas for a few very simple reasons. My parents argued less. My family got together and felt like a family - specially when my grandparents were still alive. It was as if this thing called Christmas just brought out the best in everyone.
Yes, you got gifts too. But even when they were rubbish you had no need of, it was truly the thought that counted. The thought that you belonged to something - to this extended group of aunts, uncles, cousins, cousins' kids etc etc - was immensely reassuring.
I have always felt through life that I was somehow on the outside looking in. Christmas was a rare time when I felt a part of it all. And it had nothing to do with religion then or now.
So, this Christmas, if you know someone who is on the outside looking in, let them in. Every religion in the world teaches that this is the right thing to do - because if you take the various gods out of the equation, all these religions are really about is the idea of all of us feeling like we are a part of something larger. That we are not alone.
Whether it's decorating a Christmas tree, or lighting a Menorah, or any other ritual, remember the main thing is that you are doing the same thing at the same time as millions of your fellow humans. You are a part of something.
If there is a god, he or she will be totally cool with being on the outside looking in. Trust me.
