Once a year, the Jewish community is granted a “day off” in all the traditional senses of the word: no work, no school, no Shabbat or holiday preparations, no special synagogue services. Shops are closed and a quiet settles in the streets. It’s not your average Sunday. Indeed for many of our neighbors, December 25 is the year’s highlight.
And for us Jews? Ironically, Christmas can be a gift. A day without quotidian obligations. How rare is that? Maybe you’ll choose to stay home, and enjoy an afternoon of peace, reading that long-awaited novel. Or, in light of recent tragic events, spend time with friends and loved ones, maybe on a day trip to the mountains for a winter hike or skiing. Or, a classic treat — going to the movies on a weekday in the middle of the afternoon.
For those with families, Christmas offers an ideal opportunity to teach your children about the traditions of other faiths, and the importance of respecting and understanding our fellow citizens.
December 25 is a day to do something we’re normally too busy for. What do you have planned?
