So what right? Christmas and these pagan holidays are totally different right? Not really, when you look at it. In Pagan Traditions the Winter Solstice celebrates the Birth of the Sun, the rebirth of light and the renewal of life. Kinda what Jesus' birth was all about too huh?

Recently I was talking with my "spiritual advisor" about my beliefs as both a Wiccan and Christian. We have been exploring Christian Symbolism through a Pagan perspective. In Wicca I have a deep relationship with the Female aspect of the Divine Creator, something I've found lacking in Christianity. He suggested that I 'take a walk with Mary' and see how she, as a mother and Christian icon, relates to me.

As I walked with her we spoke of children, hers, and mine she said some things to me that rang true for me and may perhaps ring true for others so I share them here. Do what you will with them.

She spoke of Christmas, and the birth of her child being celebrated the world over and she reminded me that all mothers hear a voice, or see an angel telling them that their child will be special and to remember that. At a time when it seems to politically incorrect to say "Merry Christmas" to think that Christmas can be more than just a celebration of the birth of one child, but can be the celebration of the birth - or rebirth- of our own Divine Child within ourselves.

Christmas brings us light; we can find that light within ourselves and celebrate that as well.

She also asked the question, who has more fun at Christmas Adults or Children? And if nothing else remember that children do, so be like a child at Christmas and enjoy the holiday through the eyes of children.

So this year I will celebrate Christmas as more than just the birth of Jesus and a visit from Santa Claus, but also as the rebirth of the Divine within me, may it shine with compassion and understanding,

Blessings and Merry Christmas everyone, FM