Seattle Caves on Christmas Trees

For over a quarter century, Sea-Tac Airport has displayed Christmas (or, now more commonly called "Holiday") trees. Not this year. Why? Because, this year, a Jewish rabbi wanted a menorah erected as well. When the airport said 'no,' he threatened to sue. And down came the trees!

Outrage has correctly resulted. Said one employee (quoted in a local Seattle news outlet): "It's a Christmas tree! It's not like they were displaying crucifixes or menorahs or anything religious, but Christmas trees that have been around here for years."

The employee is correct. Yet, this is nothing new. Even secular Christmas symbols, like Santa Claus and the reindeer (and, yes, trees), are increasingly under attack. Why? Because minority groups find them offensive. Why? This is a good question. I have been a Christian for over 25 years. I've grown up in church. I've never heard a Bible study consider the deep theological implications of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. And I've apparently missed the very deep, spiritual references to evergreen trees in the accounts of Jesus' birth - provided by Matthew and Luke. Perhaps a non-Christian show them to me.

I find it laughable (on the one hand) and very frustrating (on the other) that even the warm-and-fuzzy, completely secular symbols of Christmas are now the subject of such debate. That I have to expend time defending a decorated tree is unfathomable to me. If Sea-Tac Airport had a nativity scene up with a big billboard declaring: "Believe in Jesus or go to Hell," then I can understand the rabbi being a bit bothered by that. But this was not the case. We're talking about trees! Trees with big red ornaments! I would like to know how many religious conversions were inspired by these obviously profound trees. Were airport passengers walking past the tree on their way to the ticket counter, stopping and saying: "Oh my, what a beautiful tree. I think I'm going to become a Christian now"?

But Sea-Tac caved. Why? Because they were threatened by a lawsuit. Yeah, that's it. The new American way: Do what I say - or I'll sue you.

I like what Seattle Airport Commissioner Bob Edwards suggested. Take down the trees and put him a 9-foot tall statue of the Grinch to welcome people in. That's a great idea - and very appropriate to what's happening in America today. But I'm sure someone, somewhere would find some religious dimension even to that, and threaten another lawsuit.

Shame on you, Sea-Tac, for backing down. You should've told whoever objects to a lousy tree to take a one-way flight elsewhere. And if they want to sue, bring it on. It's time people start standing up to this nonsense.