This time of year is significant for other beliefs, too. Buddhists, for example, celebrate December 8 as Bodhi Day, the day on which Buddha achieved enlightenment and thus transcended beyond the earthly plane of birth, death, and rebirth.

And, of course, modern-day Druids and Wiccans celebrate December 21 as the winter solstice—the longest night of the year, when the sun appears to die and be reborn, offering the promise of renewal and rejuvenation.

From Ramadan to Bodhi Day, Kwanzaa to Hanukkah, this time of year is a very special one for many people around the world. As technology and the news media increasingly shrink our world, making it easier to communicate and to understand each other, it’s worth taking time out to recognize the diversity of ways in which people choose to guide their lives.