Final answer:
The texts provided deal with the importance of challenging personal belief systems, considering counterarguments, and the value of understanding perspectives opposite to one's own in debates such as holiday traditions, historical interpretation, and societal issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is tasked with writing gist statements about provided texts, which seem to discuss the themes of belief systems, counterarguments, the importance of differing viewpoints, and the application of critical thinking. By considering controversial debates such as the placement of Christmas trees before Thanksgiving or the removal of a statute of a Civil War general, the student is encouraged to understand and construct well-reasoned arguments while acknowledging contradictory perspectives. The texts urge the reader to research different opinions, discuss with others, and to be empathetic towards dissenting views. Furthermore, the mentions of religious traditions and the story of Santa Claus highlight the complexity and personal nature that beliefs can encompass, especially when they are challenged or scrutinized.