I am an atheist, but participate in the social aspects of xmas. In fact I do it twice over, as in Spain the more important date is the 6th January, the day that the arrival of the three wise men that brought gifts to Jesus is supposed to have occurred. I am also quite happy to participate in a respectful way in the local Hindu and Moslem community celebrations that occur throughout the year, when this appears appropriate. In essence I do not understand people's need for religion, but I do understand that those people who do have such a need, do have a right to respect for their beliefs.