>No question that we are individually free to practice or not any religion or lack thereof. But I think it is a stretch to say they were trying to protect us from being exposed to other practicing their religion.
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>Personally I am only a Christian culturally but I don't see where any religious symbols anyplace that honor the origin of the holiday ( or at least the origin of the holiday that co-opted winter soltce rites that long pre-date the first Christmas ) are any more offensive than folk dancing. I think a theocracy riding in on Santa's sleigh or following a star to the manger is the least of our worries. <g>
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>I agree with you.
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>(And Mike, as I'm copying you, even though I also believe in "freedom from religion", there's a huge difference between a simple display of one's religion and establishing a religion. And you know I'm the least religious person on this forum. So I really think you're off base).
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>I believe in the concept of "no harm, no foul". Putting up a Christmas tree or hanging some symbols in public is hardly an attempt at jamming religion down another's throat. There's a big difference between a simple display of one's religion and establishing a religion. Any non-Christian who drives by a public place and sees a Christmas tree or similar material, and finds it "offensive" and seeks to take action, is going out of their way to look for trouble - and needs to get a freaking life....or a job.

Thanks for the cheap shot, KG. I can always count on you.