Jesus has been replaced by Nissa

Well folks, christmas has arrived in Denmark and with it the onslaught of the gnomes - "nissa" people. Nissa is everywhere, ornaments, cartoons, t.v. shows, crafts, decoration, wreaths, cards, wrapping paper, yard statues. And, along with lights, candles and greenery is the standard holiday decor in this country. Trees only come into the homes the week of Christmas, but many people buy them earlier and keep them in their backyard.

However, I keep looking for some sign of baby Jesus and any form of Christianity here and it's as missing as OJ's glove in his first trial. While this is a Lutheran Country and all Danes profess to be Lutheran, very few if any at all actually go to church, except on Christmas and maybe Easter. I have only seen one nativity scene for sale. Granted, I am not a practicing Christian in the church sense, but still I try and demonstrate with family what the meaning of Christmas is.

In Denmark, it has nothing to do with the birth of Jesus, but rather the significance of lights, the derision from darkness and work life, joyous times of merriment with family and friends and gift giving. It is a timeless tradition that, like all countries, has become more materialistic and a chance for overworked parents to dote on their children. I have asked countless people their impression of this and everyone, Dane and non-Dane answer the same way, "Denmark's not a religious country".

So now we know what it's like to live in a country where everybody celebrates in the same nationalistic/ethnic way. Even though we are connected to an international school, we are surrounded by almost pure Danish culture and it's noticeable that everybody joins in, because that is what is done and will always be done. Every shop, business, doctors' office, grocery store decorate for Christmas. It's an unspoken rule that you must. Every desk in every office or table at home has an advent candle that burns down a number from 1 - 24 days. Lights and greenery in every window. Yes, it is beautiful. Try and get that spirit in America where disjointed religions and beliefs mix with the pervasive political correctness. Sheesh. There's a lot of "hum bug-ness" that goes on in America. And even though it's not in the name of religion, at least the Danes haul off and go with the festiveness of it all. It's all very interesting.

Now, go out and light your Christmas spirits.
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