I came across this article on Boston.com
Belmont PTA Decides Students Can Handle ‘Offensive’ Christmas Tree in ‘The Nutcracker’
Apparently some of the religious content in the Nutcracker could be offensive towards some students. The biggest offender being the giant Christmas tree on stage.
Are we for real here? Do we need to shelter our children from anything that might be deemed "offensive"? Is a child really going to be offended by a Christmas tree? No, it's the parents that are "offended" and projecting this onto the children. Then send your child to a religious school of your choosing where they will not be exposed to any culture or art that could be related to another religion. Don't take them to the mall or drive around your neighborhood until January. Problem solved.
Do these parents know the history of the Christmas tree?
"The use of evergreen trees, wreaths, and garlands to symbolize eternal life was a custom of the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews. Tree worship was common among the pagan Europeans and survived their conversion to Christianity in the Scandinavian customs of decorating the house and barn with evergreens at the New Year to scare away the devil and of setting up a tree for the birds during Christmastime." - source
Instead of complaining to the PTA why don't you talk to your child about the history of the Christmas tree and take them to a performance at your place of worship. Let them go to the Nutcracker which is a classic ballet that everyone should see at some point. Stop sheltering your children and instead talk to them.
Honestly I'm sick of people complaining about seeing a Santa or a tree somewhere and being offended. Get yourself educated. Santa and Christmas trees are both based on pagan traditions. Find something more important to be offended by.
