This one is a judgment call. On one hand we have a global pandemic that has killed many and is still apparent in numerous countries. Here in America it is still a health threat not to be taken lightly.

On the other hand, the reported numbers are unreliable and prone to political manipulation. The mortality rate, if the numbers are to be believed, is only high amongst those with preexisting conditions and the elderly. Many of our state and national politicians are blatantly ignoring the regs they ask others to follow. Even with those reported stats the recovery rate is over 95 percent across the board. And perhaps the most cogent factor, this virus has brought out the worst in government ineptitude and hypocrisy and has engendered the sometimes dormant nasty buttinski tendencies in many, especially in those of our younger set. So, what do you do?

Well, first off, you act with reason and not emotion. You take into account the facts and you save the Chicken Little analysis for hysterics. You also remember that Christmas is properly the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and that it does not necessarily have to be accompanied by presents and egg nog.

However, if at all possible, it does have to be celebrated with those you love like family and friends. And there’s the issue. Can you do so without taking a dangerous health risk? Yes.

Obviously, if friends or loved ones are elderly or have severe preexisting conditions, or if they lead an existence that puts them constantly at the risk of virus exposure, then accommodations must be made to protect them. That decision primarily needs to be made by them, not by well meaning but overweening associates who have appointed themselves COVID-19 hall monitors.

But if you are below 65 years of age and in reasonably good health, the chances, though not nonexistent, of you catching and not recovering from COVID-19 are small. Thus, within reason, celebrate Christmas. Do not permit government regs or rabid scolds to keep you from intelligently celebrating this wonderful holiday with friends and family. Defend your freedom. Defend your Christmas.