Christmas specials-- how they have changed!

[James Jackson]

Last night, I was watching "A Charlie Brown Christmas" with my 11 year old. It was released in 1965, the year before I was born, and I don't ever remember not watching "A Charlie Brown Christmas" at least once every year. But I got the impression it was the first time Caleb had really paid attention to it. And watching it through his eyes, I was amazed at how wonderfully, incredibly politically incorrect "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is. When Charlie Brown cries out, "Isn't there anyone who can tell me what Christmas is all about?!?", only one answer is given. Linus doesn't come out and say, "well, the holidays mean different things to different people, Charlie Brown. Christmas is all about spending time with the people you love." Instead, Linus comes center stage, asks for the lights to come on, and recites Luke 2, ending with "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will toward men." Then he grabs his blanket, walks to Charlie Brown, and quietly says, "That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." Charlie Brown walks out of the theater with his pitiful little tree, stands under the stars, and then-- I swear I am not making this up-- closes his eyes and prays, while Linus's words from Luke echo in his head. And the whole Peanuts gang joins him under the stars and sings "Peace on earth, and mercy mild-- God and sinners reconciled." No menorahs, no mention of Ramadan, no Kwanzaa. No season's greetings, no Santa Claus, no happy holidays. Because while that may be what December is all about, that is NOT what Christmas is all about. Linus knew that there wasn't anything else that would answer Charlie Brown's question.
As I listen to what my sons talk about when they come home from school, I am glad they are learning about diversity and tolerance. I truly am not bothered that Caleb learned "The Dreidel Song" in fourth grade. But if someone asks me what Christmas is really all about, there really is only one answer.
Thank God for Charlie Brown!

[Susan J. Hetrick]

Too True! Remember The Little Drummer Boy?? They don't show that one anymore. I bought a VCR tape of it years ago and still watch it, but it's not the same as seeing it broadcast on a Friday night special. Sigh.