“A new command I give you: Love one another.
As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples,
if you love one another.”
John 13:34-35
Santa Monica, California is, yet again, embroiled in a religious/non-religious brouhaha regarding the display of nativity events at Christmastime. For years, Santa Monica has allowed a limited number of nativity displays on Ocean Avenue in Palisades Park. There are 21 spaces up for grabs, and nine of the spaces have normally been for a combined 14-scene diorama. Last year, a group of non-believers flooded the city offices with applications for the spaces. 18 spaces were given to the non-believers, two spaces went to churches for nativity scenes, and one space was reserved for a Chanukah display. The non-believers' spaces carried mostly signs denigrating the Christian viewpoint, such as a poster of Jesus, Santa Claus, and the devil saying, "37 Million Americans know myths when they see them." Those signs were vandalized, and the ensuing uproar overpowered the real reason for any kind of display at all.
This year, the city refused to issue permits for any displays in the park, ending a tradition that began in 1953 that earned the city the nickname, The City of the Christmas Story." Several of the Christian churches promptly went to court to try to force the city to reopen the displays. As of this writing, the judge in the case has indicated that she will deny that bid. All parties have now taken to the media to air the "facts" to the arena of the public, each accusing the other of denying their free speech rights.
What ever happened to respecting the opinion of others, even if you don't agree? What ever happened to caring more about people than about forcing "truth" down someone's throat? Both the religious and the non-religious sides should be ashamed of their rancor and their actions. If everyone can not get alone, then there is no point in having a "nativity" display. It is sad that the officials of the City of Santa Monica are the only ones showing any sense at this point. If you can't play nice, then take your toys and go home.
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