To the editor:

I write in response to David Ricker’s letter ( Dec. 13, “Merry Christmas”) about Ebenezer Scrooge being alive and well.

I was raised a Catholic. I do not remember Ebenezer in any sermons.

I do agree people have lost the meaning of Christmas. It is a Christian holiday. We do not as a society recognize any other religious holiday with such grandeur and expense.

We do not say “ Happy Hanukkah” or recognize any other holiday that is as important to any other religion.

To me, Christmas has very little meaning. I have no religious affiliation to it and I will not participate in the commercialization of it.

I think that is a sad part of our society in general that we will give to any charity only at Christmas “for the children.”

Here’s a surprise for you: Those children need food and clothing all year.

If you choose to celebrate Christmas, great. I hope it gives you peace and joy. If you celebrate any other day, week or month, and that brings you peace and joy, I wish you all peace and joy — something we should be striving for every day all year.

If you are lucky enough to give to some needy one any time of year, please do. It may just bring someone struggling some peace and joy.

Mary Ellen Spear

Bath