For people that don't celebrate Christmas, this time of year is a bit different than everyone else's. Hear are some of my confessions about this time of year:
1. I won't get offended if you say Merry Christmas to me, but it's extra nice when someone says Happy Holidays.
I totally understand that Christmas is now often celebrated in a secular way and that it is extremely widespread, so even though I don't celebrate I take the compliment and say "you too." However, when someone is thoughtful enough to understand that not everyone celebrates their holiday, it feels really great.
2. I am actually glad I never believed in Santa.
I truly believe it has given me the ability to think on my own and realize from a young age that just because everyone around believes something, dosen't mean it's true.
3. I still love all things Christmas.
I may or may not jam out to "All I Want For Christmas Is You" on loop during December and get super into all things Secret Santas.
4. I don't feel left out, so don't feel bad for me.
Don't feel bad that I've never seen Elf or that I've never had a Christmas Tree. I get presents eight days a week and get to win dreidel money!
5. It's still the "most wonderful time of the year."
Even without Christmas, I still enjoy spending time with family and friends, exchanging gifts, and snuggling by the fire with my pets while holiday music plays in the background. It's still an incredibly magical, and beautiful time.
6. I love answering questions, so don't feel bad if you forget how many days of Hanukkah there are or what the traditions are.
I actually am really grateful when people take the time to learn more about what my home is like around this time of year, so don't be shy or embarrassed!
7. I did silently judge you for believing in Santa, though, when I was a kid.
Really? You thought a big, fat man climbed down your chimney, gave you presents, then flew away in a sleigh pulled by flying reindeer?
8. I would just like to say thank you to my friends' parents that let me decorate their tree with their family and bake cookies for Santa.
You are the reason I did feel included in the Christmas spirit.
9. And another thank you to the parents that sent their kids to my house for Hanukkah and encouraged them to light the menorah and eat latkes.
You are the reason that I didn't feel so different after all.
