I love Christmas.

Everyone says that, but I have actual reasons. That’s right. Reasons. If I were on trial for loving Christmas, I would be found guilty. Given a life sentence of Christmas cheer.

So why, you ask? Why this arrogant assumption? This preposterous proposition?

Because during Christmas all of America loves what I love all year long:

• Jesus
• Old music
• Classic films

That’s right. Folks might say “Happy Holidays” at the department stores, but “Silent Night” is still playing in the dressing rooms. Jesus is everywhere during the Christmas season. Nativity scenes fill shelves and yards and window displays. Christmas trees are topped with angels or a star — both reminders of the story of Jesus’ birth.

And when “Silent Night” isn’t playing, what is? Top 40′s music? Rap? Country? Oh, no. Bing Crosby, Louis Armstrong, Judy Garland, Dean Martin. Great singers crooning great music that is 50+ years old. I listen to that music all year long. They did sing more than just “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Lots more. And it’s fabulous.

And when families gather together around the Christmas tree with hot chocolate and popcorn, what movies do they pull out? The classics — “It’s a Wonderful Life”, “Miracle on 34th Street”, so many more. And musicals — the epitome of entertainment — are on TV everyday. Ah, the joy of seeing people spontaneously break out in song at any moment.

As a matter of fact, I’m thinking of doing that right now…

“Do You Hear What I Hear?”