One more thought about the 'reason for the season' - the ancient peoples of Northern Europe had a very practical NEED to celebrate the Winter Solstice with gifting and feasting. It was an opportunity for those who had enjoyed a successful harvest/hunt to share the bounty with those less fortunate. That way, everyone had a chance to make it through the darkest, coldest season of the year without starving, and the 'survival of the species' (and of the communities) was ensured.
In spite of all the commercialism surrounding Christmas today, the song DOES remain the same. It all depends on where the focus is, on HOW each of us chooses to celebrate - if we choose to do so at all!