MARGINS:Membership comes with benefits

When asked about my nationality, it is not enough just to say, "I am American." There is often a follow-up question such as "No really, what are you?" This happens more often abroad than here in the U.S.

It is without hesitation that I volunteer my ancestry.

I am a follower of the Swedish saying: "If you want to grow, don't cut off your roots."

But, to be honest, saying "I am of Armenian descent" does not carry the same panache as saying "My grandparents were from Florence," or the sophistication of having roots in the Burgundy region of France. It does not even carry the same aura of tracing one's roots to ancient Persia. And of course, claiming one's ancestors may have mingled with Plato and Aristotle is in a league of its own.

But we are what we are, and there is no use in denying one's heritage. Besides, it's not even cool to do that any more. I don't even think it's very American and System of a Down wouldn't approve of it either.

The positive icons associated with my ancestry are not as grandiose as some of the other ancient civilizations.

Yet, being associated with being Armenian carries some positive notes during the year. If System of a Down is having a benefit concert for genocide recognition or one's staying at the Kerkorian-owned MGM Grande in Las Vegas (55% ownership), then there are some tangible accomplishments to be proud of, even if it is only by association.

Still, there are no Armenian equivalents of Italian-made Maserati Quattroportes roaming the street of Beverly Hills, or the fine French Cognac on the shelves at the nearby liquor store. And there are no parallels to the exquisite Persian carpets gracing the numerous mansions around town.

Yet, the holiday season brings about a set of unique advantages to being Armenian. The source of these advantages can be traced to Armenian Christmas being celebrated on Jan. 6.

Theophany or Epiphany (or Astvadz-a-haytnootyoon in Armenian) means "revelation of God," which is the central theme of the Christmas Season in the Armenian Church. During the "Armenian Christmas" season, the major events that are celebrated are the Nativity of Christ in Bethlehem and His Baptism in the River Jordan. The major feast in the Armenian Church is Jan. 6.

This is a source of some perks.