Commentary: What I Want for Christmas

By Dr. John Tamilio III

My wish this Christmas is bold, but not audacious. I want peace. I am not just referring to the cessation of violence or a respite from war, although both would be welcome. The peace I want is akin to the Hebrew word shalom, which means wholeness and completeness.

I need a break — a breather from the rancor that emanates from the mouths of pundits on the right and the left, leveling the nastiest diatribes against one another. I want to see real bipartisan cooperation from our elected officials.

I need a break from social media — the medium that has birthed the new road rage, where people, safe behind their computer, iPhone, and tablet screens, spout the most hateful rhetoric against those on their “friends” list. Can we try to identify with one another and exhibit a modicum of patience?

I need a break from cruelty. A version of the Golden Rule exists in practically every religion and culture. Whether you are a person of faith, an agnostic, or an atheist, you can still be guided by an ethic that prompts you to treat others with kindness — and by “others,” I mean those who are just like you and, more so, those who are radically different.

I need a break from commercialism — the faux-philosophy that associates happiness with materialism and the accumulation of wealth. I’d much rather focus on life-giving relationships based on genuine love. I would much rather see the philanthropy that comes to the fore when there is a national tragedy become the norm.

I need a break from hate — from those who abhor others because of their racial, ethnic, religious, or ideological differences. Instead of judging those who are different, why can’t we reach out to them in a spirit of true compassion?

In lieu of this incomplete list, I pray for peace, a completeness that is simple, though not simplistic. I long for communities in which we truly see ourselves as inextricably bound together in a sister and brotherhood that forgives and nurtures, respects and empowers, yielding what Abraham Lincoln called “the better angels of our nature.”

If you find this gift, you do not need to place it under my tree. Plant it in your heart instead. Water it with grace and let the light of hope shine upon it so that it takes root and flourishes in your words and actions. I pledge to do the same, although it isn’t easy. It takes effort to shed archaic ideas and empty habits. However, as with anything that is worth it, the efforts will yield a bounty of blessings.

My wish this Christmas is for peace.

The Rev. Dr. John Tamilio III is the pastor of the Congregational Church of Canton.

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