[Margaret Pilkington]

Like the concepts of faith, commercialism has hijacked the spirit of Christmas.....and that fantasy figure you talk about is just an icon on which to pin the spirit of Christmas.
The spirit of Christmas is about generosity(and I am not referring to material generosity - though that is what it has now become) I am talking about spiritual generosity, kindness.

Don't tell me, that as a child, you were not excited about Christmas.....or that having been 'lied to' has damaged you in some way.
The spirit of Christmas is having faith, and a belief that things can be better.

If you, yourself have no faith....then that is sad, ( but your choice) do not deride those who do have faith because that is their choice.