Atheists deny the existence of the supernatural and prefer science as the only way to understand the world. They do not accept the theories of believers and reject religious traditions. One of the most popular holidays in the world is Christmas. Can atheists celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the human incarnation of the Christian God? We are ready to answer your questions and determine which holidays are available to atheists.
How do atheists spend Christmas?
Can atheists celebrate Christmas? No one can stop them from putting up a Christmas tree, decorating their home, and enjoying the cozy atmosphere with their family and friends. There are no set rules that atheists must adhere to, but they can exclude religious aspects – church services and religious discussions.
Celebrating with people who attend churches and adhere to established rituals can be too difficult. Religiously minded people can be intolerant, proving their rightness. You will have to defend your beliefs. To navigate complex issues, you will have to develop unique tactics.
How should atheists feel about religious celebrations?
Many atheists ignore the holidays, but some enjoy the season in their way. They take full advantage of their incredible experiences with other cultures and religions. Sometimes, atheists create their versions of Christmas events. For example, one society celebrates the life of the famous physicist Isaac Newton and calls this period “Newtonmas.” Those who are against Christmas continue to adhere to the normal rhythm of life. There are several ways to spend the Christmas season:
- Be in the spirit of the holiday without betraying your atheistic principles. You can enjoy a good mood, love yourself, and have a great time.
- Be grateful. You don’t have to believe in a deity to feel and express gratitude. The opportunity to follow your beliefs without joining the worshipers of religions is worth appreciating.
- Give and receive gifts. You can please loved ones with thoughtful surprises and ensure a good mood.
Enjoy delicious food and drinks. The special selection of dishes that is typical for the celebration of Christmas can please not only Christians but also atheists, so do not deny yourself small joys.
Participation in entertainment cannot be considered a deviation from the usual rules; it is a desire to join humanity and respect the traditions of other people. Atheistic beliefs are no reason to refuse entertainment and enjoy this wonderful time of year. Many atheists give gifts, go to visit, decorate the Christmas tree, and have a great time with their family. Christmas is not only a religious but also a secular holiday.
Principles for Communicating with a Theistic Family During the Holidays
Often, family members may differ in their religious preferences. This issue causes heated discussions in which you must defend your opinion. As an atheist, it isn’t easy to establish harmonious relationships and inspire respect in those who do not accept such a worldview. You may face intimidation, ridicule, and other bullying. Many atheists prefer to claim that they are “agnostic Christians.” This is the name given to people who respect Christian ideals but doubt the existence of God. The following tips will help you cope with difficulties:
- Patience and understanding for those with different ideas and worldviews will not change their preferences. Each person has the right to choose a faith according to their knowledge.
- Firmly defend your beliefs. Even if the interlocutor asks difficult questions, you must protect your principles and understand what is happening confidently. Even if relatives try to change your mind, you can convince them otherwise.
- Avoiding a toxic environment. This is a common practice in families where different beliefs do not create obstacles to communication. If the attitude towards an atheist becomes rude and inattentive, you have to take action. Intimidation or unfair treatment is a signal for action; self-love is above all.
It is difficult to impose religious preferences on an adult; he is independent enough to personally understand the issues of interest. Atheists try to celebrate Christmas as a cultural holiday that has great secular significance. Most Christians prefer external attributes, forgetting about the original meaning of the holiday. They are carried away by buying gifts, decorating the house, and preparing traditional dishes.
Do not forget about what Christmas is for, its history, and its origin. On the eve of the holiday, you need to devote time to prayer, attend mass and spend time with your loved ones. Atheists can adapt Christmas traditions to their own worldview or spend time in their usual style, this is the choice of each individual.