Surviving Christmas as a Pagan

Okay, another season of red and white lights, garish sweaters and rampant materialism, and a whole lot of Christians trying really hard to work Jesus in there somehow. Yes, that is a little brisk but for those of us swimming in Christmas culture, the winter season can leave us feeling more Grinch than jolly. Here’s a few approaches to help us heathens stumble through the season.

Take Solace in the Pagan Themes

There are plenty of pagan themes in our modern Christmas celebrations. From the ceremonial lights to the yule log to the feasting, the echoes of pagan rituals are heard throughout the season. While you may pass on the Nativity scene, soak up the lasting impacts of the solstice celebrations that have trickled through the ages to our times.

Hang the mistletoe in honor of the ancient Druids, leave out your boots (or stockings) for Wotan to fill with sweets after his Wild Ride, and party it up like a Roman on Saturnalia. After all, it’s the reason for your actions that makes it magic.

Take a Page from the other non-Christians

Have you ever wandered the streets during a snow day? It’s amazing, the level of quiet and peace that can be found when the common spaces are empty. Take this as an opportunity to enjoy things during the holiday season when others are occupied.

Hit the movie theaters, or the snow slopes or try your favorite restaurant if they are open. Remember to tip well, while you may be enjoying a day off free from obligations, your servers are not.

Dive in with Both Feet

That jolly-old elf brings the Holly King magic with him and there is power in that red suit. Set aside your quibbles over mangers and miraculous births, and recognize that this is a holiday honoring new light in the world and good cheer. How often do we spend a whole day praising peace?

Drink the hot chocolate, sing carols at the top of your lungs, give gifts that make people smile and celebrate with those you care about because at the end of the day, the most important message of the holiday season is welcoming the light of the coming season. Don’t worry, the Gods know that you can welcome that light in a cloak or a garish sweater or both at the same time.