I am not shy about telling people where I stand when it comes to religion. When I told a friend I wasn't Christian she said it was her "duty" to convert me. (She was only halfway joking but hasn't tried.)
A couple of assumptions follow my statement of "I'm not Christian." I am usually asked these questions, or someone makes certain statements.
1. "So, you don't believe in God?"
2. "Since you don't celebrate Christmas…"
I'd like to address these issues here.
1. "So, you don't believe in God?"
Just because I profess that I'm not of the same faith as you, doesn't mean I don't believe in God.
2. "Since you don't celebrate Christmas…"
The guy who said this evidently didn't see the gift bags I have here for my family.
Here's what I believe.
Jesus was a person who lived long ago and was a leader among his people. He was a religious zealot who went against the government of the day and was killed for his actions. His followers continued his stories.
Son of God? Yes, in the same way that you and I are. But Jesus was not the only charismatic leader. Islam and Judaism call Jerusalem the birthplace of their religions, too.
Did he rise from the dead? That depends on what you mean. After my mother died, she came to me in spirit a few times. I heard and saw her.
I am. You are. The trees, oceans, my cat, rocks. Everywhere and everything is God.
If all humans believed Life was precious there would be no war.
The assumptions about me will continue, I'm sure. I think the next time that guy who thinks I don't celebrate Christmas comes to borrow something, I'll have a surprise for him. On my Pinterest page, I have a collection of my favorite Christmas song performed by various artists. The song is "Carol of the Bells." I'll have it up and playing.
Yes, it's a beautiful, Christian song.