And of course there is the oft-desired white Christmas.
This year, however, those of us spending the holiday in the United States have a new color to consider: orange.
It denotes the second highest state of alert in the Department of Homeland Security’s color-coded alert system.
It means that Santa’s sleigh will be joined in the night sky by fighter jets, while on the ground, any creature that stirs, barring possibly a mouse, will be the object of extra-rigorous scrutiny by those charged with combating threats, or acts of terror directed against the country, its government and people.
The season of good will was never universal. Christmas and its vaunted spirit has always been up against the odds when it comes to the less desirable aspects of human behavior.
Nevertheless, it has, at times, made life of earth better.
The celebration of the holiday once stopped fighting on the western front in World War I. Soccer matches were even played by opposing forces before Christmas passed and fighting resumed.
Christmas can still weave its magic. It remains a time for families to spend time together and take a break from their labors. It is a most holy event for some, a more worldly celebration for others.
But no matter what the emphasis, it remains a moment in the year when we take stock of not only our own lives, but on the lives of all about us.
It is also now a time for extra security and vigilance in a world profoundly changed by the attacks of September 2001.
But a changed world means that we need Christmas and all its better aspects like never before. It is our better side showing and we should not hesitate to mark it to the full, regardless of threat or ill will.
It can only be hoped that this year’s holiday will pass peacefully and that the New Year will bring with it better prospects everywhere for human peace and progress.
In the meantime, as in all years past, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all.