The definition of the word oxymoron according to www.Dictionary.com: A figure of speech, seemingly self-contradictory effect, as in "cruel kindness" or "to make haste slowly."
This is what first came to mind when I saw The West Milford Messenger article titled "No religious displays for township" with the subtitle of "Mayor and council will go back to tree lighting."
I celebrate no holidays that use a decorated tree. If it is a holiday tree, what holiday is it for? It is in reality a Christmas tree, not a holiday tree. Calling it anything else is, I think, both an insult to those who celebrate Christmas and a severe lack of understanding for those who do not celebrate either Christmas or any holiday.
West Milford should allow all displays or allow none, for those who observe and those who don't. Embrace all who live within your borders, not just those who observe the season. And shame on those who are intolerant to any displays other than their own.
Marilyn Gurtman-Oppenheimer
Newfoundland