View From the Legislature

The word “constant” in math or more generally, refers to something that doesn’t change. These days, or perhaps in all days, there really isn’t much that would be considered constant. Over the past two years we have seen the type of change that most of us have never experienced in our life.

The feeling of uncertainty is something that every generation has at some point faced. I have not experienced living through a world war, a domestic war, or a great depression, but no doubt the feeling of uncertainty and change was a constant emotion for those that did. We often mark our own well being at specific times of the year. This is especially true at Christmas because it is filled with family and societal traditions as well as it being close to the conclusion of the year.

As individuals and as society, there are likely no two Christmases that are the same. What is happening around us in the world impacts the celebration of Christmas. Whether because of economic, political, or pandemic reasons. This is something we have experienced recently. And while this Christmas season has allowed for many more activities and gatherings than last year did, it is still not what we would consider normal or preferable.

What is happening in our individual lives also impacts Christmas. The way we experience Christmas is different as a child than the way we experience it as an adult. How we feel about this time of the year can be reflected in what has happened over the past twelve months. The loss of a loved one dramatically impacts Christmas, and it can often make for painful remembrances of those that have been lost. With all of this uncertainty and change, it is hardly a wonder that Christmas can be, for many, a difficult time of year.

Yet, when all the individual and societal changes are put aside, the truth remains that Christmas itself is the constant. It has not changed from the very first Christmas. The message of hope that was born into the world in Bethlehem is as true today as it was then. And no doubt, there was change and challenges in those times as well.

But Christmas is less about what is going on around us and more about what is going on inside of us. Putting aside all that is happening around us, positive or negative, the core of Christmas remains the same. It remains constant. It is not dependent upon peace or prosperity. It is not altered by pandemic or division. For Christians around the world, the celebration of Christmas and the birth of Jesus Christ marks a time of great reflection and celebration that is entirely independent from the context of the world. Which is why, as much as the world changes and uncertainly is ever present, Christmas remains the same.

My wife Kim and son Malachi and our entire family wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas.