As many know, there is a relationship between Christmas and the Winter Solstice. I can only guess that there would be many Christians that would be/are uncomfortable in examining the similarities between the Christian mythos and other spiritual traditions existing in the so-called pagan world. The similarities for instance in the stories of Christ, and the Roman Dionysius, or the Egyptian Osiris as savior gods that arose from the dead:
http://www.religioustolerance.org/xmas_sel.htm
What I don't like at this time of year is arriving at the Autumnal Equinox, when the day and night is of equal length, and then seeing the days grow shorter and the sun set further south in the sky each day, until we reach the Winter Solstice and the sun begins its return. Autumn is great, and it's great to arrive at the Winter Solstice, but that point also ushers in the coldest time of the year around here.
I do like the idea of a Christmas tree, also something that has deeper roots in non Christian traditions, because it symbolizes everlasting life. It's an evergreen, a symbol of life in the depths of Winter. It's ever green, ever living.
Beginning about the time of the Autumnal Equinox this year, actually a little earlier, during late Summer, the Mrs. and I started driving to a local vantage point on Narragansett Bay to watch the sunsets. Several days a week. We've noted the sun setting further south ever since, as the days grow shorter. I like having 4 seasons, but look forward to the sun's return North and the arrival of the Vernal Equinox!
