Santa Claus, that peculiarly American avatar of Saint Nicholas, remains surprisingly controversial for a character who promotes good will and generosity among children. Some secularists think he is too Christian—and ban him from public schools—and some Christians say he is too secular—and ban him from church. But there is another dividing line between Santa's supporters and opponents that cuts across religious lines: 85 percent of American children under five believe that Santa Claus is real. Is this good or bad? Is telling children about Santa Claus passing on a tradition, sharing a fantasy . . . or telling a lie?
Rebecca Sicree, "Is Santa Claus Real?", Touchstone, Nov./Dec. 2021 p.15
How does the Santa Claus myth fit with the UU principle of the free and responsible search for truth and meaning. Is the perpetuation of the Santa myth "responsible?"
The Santa Claus myth is for children which encourages them to believe in a world of enchantment and wonder. The Santa Claus myth is also for adults which encourages them to be generous and care and share with others.
There are three stages of human development:
- You believe in Santa.
- You don't believe in Santa.
- You are Santa.
No comments:
Post a Comment