It's surprising to me how many of my friends send Christmas cards, or holiday cards, including my atheist and secular friends.

The quote "It's surprising to me how many of my friends send Christmas cards, or holiday cards, including my atheist and secular friends." by Christopher Hitchens reflects his surprise at the widespread holiday traditions surrounding Christmas, especially among those who do not subscribe to the religious aspects of the holiday. Hitchens, a well-known atheist and critic of organized religion, is intrigued by the fact that many of his secular or non-religious friends still engage in the tradition of sending Christmas or holiday cards, a practice traditionally associated with Christianity.

Hitchens’ observation highlights the secularization of Christmas, where the holiday has become a cultural celebration that transcends its religious origins. While Christmas was originally a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, for many people, it has evolved into a broader cultural event that is celebrated by individuals regardless of their faith or lack thereof. This shift reflects how holiday traditions like sending cards, decorating trees, or exchanging gifts have become symbols of festivity and togetherness, disconnected from their religious significance.

The fact that even atheist and secular individuals partake in these holiday traditions suggests that the celebration of Christmas is more about cultural participation and community than about religious observance. Hitchens points out that these practices, such as sending cards, have become social norms that are about sharing goodwill and festivity rather than specifically commemorating religious beliefs.

Ultimately, this quote underscores the universal appeal of certain holiday customs, even among those who do not adhere to the religious meanings behind them. Hitchens highlights the way in which Christmas and other holidays have taken on a life of their own, transcending religious boundaries and becoming part of a shared cultural experience.