Some people just don’t get it.

I felt like Charlie Brown this weekend when a reporter interviewed shoppers.  Knowing that many were making cut backs, the reporter asked people how Christmas would be different this year.

One mother said, “This year I want my children to learn the real meaning of Christmas.”

That is a perfect setup.  That is a great opening line, isn’t it?  The woman sounds like she is going to describe the true meaning of Christmas.  Great starts, however, do not always guarantee a strong finish.  If only the mother had a clue.

The young woman continued, “I want them to know there is more to it than getting presents.  I want them to enjoy being with family, and having a good time, while they take a break from school.”

What?  Enjoying family?  Having a good time?  Being out of school?  What kind of answer is that – talking about clueless?

How could someone miss the big picture that much?  Perhaps the television station edited out the best part.  Since that particular channel usually treats Christianity with respect, I doubt they cut out any references to Christ.

The message of Christmas is so simple even Linus of Charlie Brown gets it.

Surely, you remember the story.  Charlie Brown finds himself depressed at Christmas time, searching for the true meaning of the holiday amidst the glitz and commercialism of the modern age.  Charlie asks Linus, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”  And Linus nails it.