Sunday, December 21, 1997

Why the big push for Santa?

By Joe Alcorta

Most Americans play along with the role of Santa Claus during the Christmas season. The old fat fellow in his red suit and white beard creates a lot of excitement during this time of year. Most towns and cities have a Santa; merchants make millions of dollars as small children have their picture taken with Old Saint Nick.

Then there is Frosty the Snowman and, of course, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Santa, Frosty and Rudolph are just part of Christmas. Americans would go into an uproar if these three characters were to be challenged in any way. In fact, the traditional historical letter, "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus," assures a young lady that there is a Santa Claus.

People freely converse about ole Santa. A favorite question is, "Are you ready for Santa Claus?" Or, "Is Santa Claus coming to your house?" Or, "What did Santa bring you?"

However, the majority of Americans also know the real reason for the season. Americans recognize Christmas Day is the birth of Jesus, the Son of God.

But for some reason or other, some courts, judges, school board trustees and school administrators are pushing more for the old fat fellow with the red toboggan instead of the One who was born in a manger.

In the news lately, we have heard of bus drivers instructed not to wish children a "Merry Christmas," but instead they can greet their young passengers with a "Ho, ho, ho." Nativity scenes or Christmas trees are not permitted on school grounds.

Many cities have raised a stink when a nativity scene is placed in a public place. In a certain school district in Alabama, a judge has appointed a "spy committee" to work in the school and report any student who might violate his anti-religion ordinance. Prayer before or after athletic competition is frowned upon.

At the same time it is a little ironic that most public school choirs throughout America are still permitted to sing religious songs. It doesn't make sense, does it? Imagine, taking out all religious songs from the public schools. What would you have left?

It is a fact that in the United States, Christmas is a legal holiday and one most Americans celebrate. Why? To newborn believers the answer is obvious. It is the birth of Jesus! In fact, most countries of the world also celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Son of God.

So why is the push for Santa so strong and the birth of Jesus so hush-hush? Yes, yes, I know. Separation of church and state. Hogwash! The Supreme Court justices have gone too far; it is a matter of interpretation.

A small, radical minority has pushed legislation to fit their agenda. This small group tells the majority of Americans what they can or cannot do. Most Americans would have no problem with a nativity scene in any city hall or in any public school in America. But because this bothers about 10 percent of the people, the nativity scene is prohibited from public view.

It is time for the majority of Americans to stand up and be counted. The majority of Americans are for a public prayer during athletic events, but again, because this might offend a small percentage of the people, the prayer is not said.

As the old saying goes, "The squeaky wheel gets the grease." Come on, fellow Americans, let's make Christ the central figure of Christmas.

Oh, yes, Virginia, I too believe in Santa Claus! I hope the old fellow takes time to stop by our house. My children and grandchildren love him.

Merry Christmas to all! May this day be a very special day with your family in which you enjoy peace, tranquility, serenity and good health.

Joe Alcorta teaches at Hardin-Simmons University.