Roy Lloyd: Christmas Controversies

It's that "most wonderful time of the year" again-when Christmas becomes the center of controversy. 

The latest hullabaloo occurred because an elementary school teacher edited out "gay" from "don we now our gay apparel" in the 16th century Christmas carol "Deck the Halls."  Fortunately, the principal overruled the teacher and the kids are singing the song as kids have done for hundreds of years-referring to happy or joyfully colored clothes. 

Today, it is true that "gay" also can mean those with a same-sex orientation.  But homophobia doesn't give anyone the right to censor a Christmas carol, making the ludicrous argument this protects children from the reality all around them. 

But the teacher's approach has made me think of a jolly proposal.  If we want to remove words with double meanings from seasonal ditties, what about "Miss Fanny Bright" in "Jingle Bells" or that all-time "giggle" favorite in "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"?  Yes, I'm talking about " figgy pudding" and "we won't go until we get some?"  Come on! 

Let's just lighten up and enjoy the season by focusing on "peace on earth." 

This is Roy Lloyd.

[Originally presented on 1010 WINS Radio, New York, NY.]