Call park’s Wintertide Lights what they are, Christmas lights

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, November 29, 2023

The recent story about the return of Wintertide Lights at Legion Park uses an archaic term (“Wintertide Lights return for month of December in Everett,” The Herald, Nov. 26).

The story speaks romantically about a “winter wonderland” at the park. There is no message when you enjoy seeing lights. It then quotes a spokesperson, that the event strives “to exceed expectations, continually adapting to the changing landscape of nature.” Then, it makes a pitch for funds.

The term “wintertide” was not in use before 900 A.D. The term is rooted in the Hebrew word “adonay” for “lord.” The next time is seen in Old English as “wyntertyde” or “wintertime.” In that sense, wintertide as used is archaic.

The usage fell off until recently with the push to de-emphasize the use of the word, Christmas. Many firms have stopped using that seasonal word in favor of something nonoffensive, yet, Ramadan is used, Hanukkah is used, and others. But, secularists seem to be of the opinion that Christmas as a word offensive to the world. The Roman government thought so.

Here in Warm Beach, the drive-through celebrates the lights of Christmas, is set up annually and uses no taxpayer dollars or taxpayer properties. The celebration of the advent of the Birth of Jesus Christ is the message.

Samuel Bess

Stanwood