Christmas is a big deal here in the United States. It’s mostly commercialized, of course, but nonetheless it’s a big deal.

But would it be such a big deal if I weren’t Christian? I wonder if I would still give Christmas presents, have a Christmas tree, or even believe in Santa Clause. Would it be the same?

Some non-Christians are really bitter towards Christmas. They either feel it’s too commercialized, too religious, or somewhere in between. Some people just can’t be happy with an extra day off. Would I be like them if I weren’t a “believer?”

Chuseok in Korea

I spent two years as a missionary in Seoul, South Korea. Even though more than 50% of the population is Christian, Christmas isn’t a big deal there at all. People generally see it as a holiday invented by churches to increase attendance numbers.

But, while Christmas isn’t a big deal for Koreans, they definitely celebrate Chuseok. Chuseok is usually referred to as “Korean Thanksgiving Day” in English and is celebrated over three consecutive days in September or October of each year.

Chuseok isn’t a religious holiday. It’s a celebration of the year’s good harvest, a time when families gather in their hometowns to play folk games, eat traditional foods, and pay respect to their departed ancestors.

Being a Secondary Observer

As an American living in Korea, I had no previous experience with Chuseok. I had no family in Korea, couldn’t make any traditional foods, and couldn’t travel to the graves of my departed ancestors. I was a secondary observer of Chuseok, much like a non-Christian might be during Christmastime in America.

Did I feel left out? Maybe a little, because I couldn’t relate with the holiday as much as my Korean peers. Yet I always appreciated the celebrations because I could spend time with people that I loved. Chuseok was always a happy time, a time of rest, and a time to make great memories.

Loving Christmas Too

Even if you don’t believe in Jesus Christ, you can still appreciate Christmas at face value. Giving and receiving presents, spending time with family, and snuggling close to the fire can be very rewarding experiences.

Some would contend that, in tolerance of other religions, we should stop designating Christmas as a national holiday.

To me, tolerance means embracing everyone equally — not avoiding hugs altogether. Holidays can be appreciated at face value, whether you’re personally connected to the celebrations or not.