As I collect my groceries, the cashier beams at me and says, “Thanks a lot! Merry Christmas!” I respond with a friendly, “Merry Christmas to you as well.”
Although I don’t personally celebrate Christmas, I always reciprocate the greeting. It feels courteous, and I genuinely hope they enjoy their holiday. I’m not offended by the phrase; I understand it comes from a place of kindness.
What I do find frustrating is the notion that opting for “Happy Holidays” instead is somehow disrespectful. This belief seems to stem from a narrow viewpoint that overlooks our society’s diversity and the myriad of celebrations that take place during this season.
It doesn’t help that our newly elected leader has made inflammatory remarks about “Happy Holidays,” insisting that “Merry Christmas” should dominate our public discourse. He has promised that under his administration, stores will echo “Merry Christmas” rather than the inclusive alternative.
Last year, he stated, “I’m a good Christian, remember that. And I told you about Christmas, and I guarantee, if I become president, we’re gonna be saying ‘Merry Christmas’ at every store.” He even criticized businesses for not using the term “Merry Christmas,” claiming it’s disgraceful.
But is anyone else still seeing Christmas trees, wreaths, and hearing carols? No one is being silenced when they wish others a “Merry Christmas,” regardless of businesses opting for “Happy Holidays” or schools referring to breaks as “Winter Break.” Christmas is hardly at risk of disappearing.
Now, let’s imagine if a Jewish candidate had campaigned by emphasizing Hanukkah and challenged stores to say “Happy Hanukkah” instead. Wouldn’t that seem odd and inappropriate? Yet, it seems acceptable when it comes from a Christian perspective.
Christmas may be a federal holiday, and Christians make up the majority, but approximately one-third of Americans celebrate other traditions. There are various religious observances during this time, including those for Bahá’ís, Buddhists, Jews, Hindus, Muslims, Pagans, and Zoroastrians, among others. This is why we hear “Happy Holidays.” It’s a recognition of the rich tapestry of celebrations in our diverse nation, not an attempt to undermine anyone’s faith.
To clarify, I have no issue with anyone saying “Merry Christmas.” As someone who doesn’t celebrate it, I’m perfectly fine receiving that greeting. The problem lies in the insistence that everyone must say “Merry Christmas” and the outrage directed at those who choose the more inclusive “Happy Holidays.” Doesn’t that seem a bit overly sensitive?
I can’t fathom why “Happy Holidays” would offend anyone when offered in good faith. Why demand that one’s specific holiday be acknowledged while dismissing an all-encompassing phrase? The America I cherish embraces its diversity and recognizes different belief systems. I hope we don’t lose sight of this essential value simply because of a disagreement with a more inclusive greeting.
May your holiday season be filled with joy and peace, no matter how you choose to celebrate. For more on family and parenting, check out this informative article about home insemination kits. Additionally, for guidance on child safety, you can refer to this essential resource. For those interested in pregnancy and home insemination, this site is an excellent resource.
In summary, while saying “Merry Christmas” is perfectly acceptable, we should embrace “Happy Holidays” as a way to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse traditions that enrich our society.