In the busy heart of New York City, something magical is brewing as the holiday season rolls in. Just a couple of hours ago, a magnificent 35-foot red spruce made a grand entrance from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest in Virginia. This stunning tree, which could make even the biggest Grinch smile, is the star of the show at Rockefeller Center’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Just like every year, folks gathered to soak up some holiday cheer and, of course, to see the tree sparkle and shine.

However, not everyone is on the same jolly page when it comes to naming this festive symbol. Earlier in the week, Portland, Oregon hosted its own tree ceremony, where the hosts seemed to tiptoe around the term “Christmas tree,” opting instead to refer to it simply as “the tree.” Now, what’s that all about? It’s Christmas, folks! This ought to be the time of year when everyone celebrates the season joyously, but it seems there are some who might be under the impression that saying “Christmas” is just too much. Meanwhile, back in New York, the air was filled with hearty “Merry Christmas!” greetings and the spirit of the season.

As the glimmering lights lit up the Rockefeller tree, excited voices rang out, expressing their love for everything Christmas. There was joy in remembering the true meaning of Christmas, with folks calling it exactly what it is—a Christmas tree! Someone reminded everyone how special this time is, pointing out the need for a little kindness and cheerfulness in our lives. There’s something uplifting about standing beneath a beautiful, twinkling tree with the word “Christmas” radiating in all its glory. It seems we need to embrace these words and traditions, especially in a world that sometimes feels just a tad too serious.

Attendees chimed in with their spirited opinions. From the South, voices rang out with a palpable sense of pride in saying “Merry Christmas.” It’s a phrase that isn’t just a nod to the season but a vibrant declaration of joy and togetherness. Down South, they might not get offended by the holiday spirit. Instead, they embrace it wholeheartedly, and there’s nothing quite like celebrating in that unfiltered, genuine manner.

So, as the season unfolds and holiday cheer makes its way through the streets, let’s remember what truly matters. It’s about peace, love, and perhaps the freshest batch of cookies one can bake. While some may dance around the word “Christmas,” let’s keep the decorations up and the spirit strong. Just as the Rockefeller Christmas tree stands tall and proud in New York, let’s not shy away from celebrating Christmas in all its glory. In this season of giving, let’s share joy, laughter, and of course, the true meaning of Christmas with everyone we encounter!