Atheist Christmas

As Christmas approaches, atheists like ourselves incline towards a collective sense of superiority. We are not haggard with religious obligations; we can enjoy the time off and excuse ourselves while we lap up the mulled wine, spoon ourselves some extra sausage meat, and exchange very middle-class gifts with one another. Heck, one of those gifts may even be the Atheist's Guide to Christmas (nudge nudge*). Indeed, we are prey to no particular tradition or outlook. As Christopher Hitchens remarks in a feisty article about the White House nativity scene:

I myself repose no faith in any man-made text or made-man redeemer, so when it's Christmas I say "Merry Christmas" with a clear conscience, as I respect Ramadan and Passover, and also because "Happy Holidays" is so thin and insipid.

No doubt that strikes a chord. However, what are we to do when approached by a non-Christian (likely these days, you know)? The New Yorker is on hand as always with their guide to a 'Happy Interfaith Holiday Season'. Our host, Paul Rudnick begins rather boldly, thus:

Just because anyone with half a brain celebrates Christmas, no one should ever use the holidays to make non-Christians feel uncomfortable.

He enlightens us with a few tips and suggestions to ensure a successful, communal Christmas period, Jews included. Here's tip number 7, for example:

For a jolly holiday film festival, invite your Jewish neighbours over and screen White Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street, and Munich.