The stories are very poetic and full of both symbolism and thought provoking concepts. So are Lord of the Rings and the Bhagavad-Gita. I read them all and enjoy much of the imagery.... I try VERY hard to appreciate the complex history of the human race and its legends and beliefs. The story(s) of Jesus is fascinating, and I try to both hold myself aloof from the question of 'belief', while not harassing those who DO believe.

In this world, it is often a harder line to walk to NOT accept certain stories as 'true'...those who DO believe have standard ways of dealing with things and have generalized acceptance in the fabric of daily life, while those who do NOT are constantly having to 'explain' and avoid.

I know, I know...some religious groups can easily point to persecution and harassment and ridicule, but in general 'belief' is more acceptable....

The 'Baby Jesus' story sure was well written to be convincing and evoke sentiment...true or not, hmmm?