In Australia the Prime Minister, Mr John Howard has advocated publicly for shopping centers to restore nativity scenes. Many centers have removed them in fear of being targeted by other religions as being offensive in the now multicultural society.

Christmas has a strong heritage in Australia and is part of the cultural history. Today arguments have surfaced calling for Christmas to be banned from public places in order not to offend people of other faiths or non-believers. There are many who now believe Christmas should be down-played.

It was recently reported on the television that one school Principal wrote a letter of apology to one angry parent after the word Christmas appeared in the school newsletter. Other schools have stopped singing Christmas carols while others have no Christmas displays so not to offend other denominations. Where is the democracy and right to free speech with all this fear being relayed about a long lived community event?

The PM, Mr Howard has come out in strong defense passionately upholding the right for religion at Christmas saying its part of the Australian way of life. Australians have a long history of celebrating Christmas which includes a live telecast of Carols by Candlelight seen throughout the nation as one of the most popular and joyous television events of the year.

Australians shouldnt have to apologize for their heritage or celebrations. Its part of Australias history and culture and its the countries principal faith. Political correctness does not need to go mad! After all Christmas is a time where the community and all people of all faiths are invited to come together in joyous celebrations.

Long live Christmas and lets remember its real meaning. Its a time to forget our differences and find common ground. A time to display the symbolic meaning of Christmas: unity, peace, forgiveness, love, celebration of life and the extended hand of friendship to all in our community.

Bernadette Dimitrov

Bernadette Dimitrov is the author of "The HoHoHo Factor!" ebook and audio book and creator of ?The HoHoHo Factor? board game - fun enlightenment travelling through cultures, traditions, myths, symbols, meanings and secret blessings and creeds from Santa Claus - ebook, audio and game for the whole family to enjoy! She is also creator of the children?s ebook and audio ?Bluey the Blue Kangaroo Santa?s new Reindeer Recruit? a fun and magical children?s book that promotes enlightened principals such as 'vizualization' which is taught today by many success mentors and gurus as a key element for success in life! She is a proud Prot?g? of The Enlightened Millionaire Institute founded by Masters of success Robert G Allen and Mark Victor Hansen. Bernadette was also one of the original founders of the Global Success Community in Australia. She has a background in and studied 'Arts' and 'Human Services'. She refers to herself as an Enlightened Entrepreneur. Although born and living in Melbourne, Australia she considers herself as a citizen of the world! Dedicated to enlightened principles. She believes everyone has a gift within, a seed to nurture and a gift to give out into the world! She believes our mission is to grow the spirit within and give the gift of who we really are. Her work is focused on self wisdom and the connection within ourselves and with each other. With a sense of fun, humor & curiosity for the world we live in, she incorporates enlightened spiritual and human development for the new millennium!