A friend of mine and I were recently lamenting about what happened with the Christmas tree flap at SEA-TAC airport. We were both appalled the rabbi apparently received a lot of angry mail -- and surely much of that from Christians, or people who would have seemed to be.

I don't normally post things like this to my blog, but sometimes, I'm learning, it's helpful to give others good ideas too. If you'd like to write something similar, you can contact Rabbi Bogomilsky here -- his contact form is linked from the right margin.

I just thought it might be nice for him to receive some supportive e-mail, which might even be noticed now that the initial blizzard has subsided. He was, by all reports, "appalled" at SEA-TAC's decision*, and his intentions were surely misreported in initial accounts.

[* Dennis Prager commented that his only mistake was to bring a lawyer into the matter, which, in our society, is a bit like pointing a loaded weapon. People, especially administrators, tend to freak out when threated with a lawsuit.]

Dear Rabbi Bogomilsky,

I'm just writing to say I strongly support your desire to have a Menorah at SEATAC. As a Christian, I enjoy and value seeing my Jewish friends and neighbors celebrate a holiday which is dear to their hearts (and mine a bit too, since I also believe in the miracle).

I'm also writing share my sympathy, since some of my co-religionists undoubtedly wrote you many rather angry letters. I can only imagine how awful that must have been for you. My faith has many flawed adherants -- including me, at times.

So I'm trying not to be pompous, but just tell you I feel for you, and, as a Christian, let you know I'm *terribly sorry* for what happened. I want you to know that there are many Christians who view Jews as friends and allies in so many things, especially in protecting the right to religious expression we have in this wonderful country.

I wish there was more I could do to stand up for your right to put up a menorah. What you did and said in reaction to the scandal really touched my heart.

Rabbi, you have my warmest regards and best wishes.

A blessed Hanukkah to you and your loved ones!

Most sincerely,
- Tim

What Rabbi Bogomilsky did, I want everyone to know, was offer to help put the Christmas trees back up. How many of you who call yourselves Christians would have helped him with his struggle to get a Menorah up?

Make every effort to add goodness to your faith. (2 Peter 1:5)