Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah.. Happy Holidays

late at night on Tuesday, the 2nd of December 2008 by Gypsy

This was a nice editorial in our local newspaper.. with all the upset over Christmas & Christians being pushed aside.. this article has a refreshing look at the wish of “Happy Holidays”.

I have been able to see both sides since I had people (who claimed to be Christians but were complete hypocrites) cramming religion down my throat, and treating me like a leper because I did not “believe” as they did (and I do not think they had a clue what they believed it, they just thought all things were covered if they just filled a seat at church).

So just as Christians feel persecuted.. it has been the same story on the other side. When either side is pushed, they are going to push back.. what are witnessing in recent years has been a push back. I do not agree with all of it, by any means.. I just wish people could find a middle of the road ability to respect each others beliefs!

I do not want Christmas to be brushed away, but I also wish Christians did not push their religion so much. So both sides need to come to a respect for one another.. each are people, good & bad.. one is not good for “believing” and the other bad (or visa versa).. anyhow.. please read this lovely editorial.. and Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Holidays to all…

But "Merry Christmas" is a great and wonderful holiday wish as well. It’s a kind and thoughtful thing to say on or near Christmas to anyone, regardless of religion. Nobody who isn’t Jewish should take offense if wished "Happy Hanukkah," and nobody who isn’t Christian should take offense to "Merry Christmas." These are all well wishes, so hear them with an open heart. If you’ve never celebrated Hanukkah, and someone wishes you happiness in conjunction with the great festival of lights, consider yourself included. Likewise, with a Christmas wish.

It’s understandable how some non-Christians have grown tired of hearing "Merry Christmas," as if it’s the only December holiday. Majority cultures can be overbearing without trying. And it’s equally understandable how Christians have grown weary of those worn-out attacks on Christmas, and the rhetoric that says we should all just say "Happy Holidays" for fear of insulting non-Christians.

But "Merry Christmas" is never an insult or an imposition of religion, and "Happy Holidays" isn’t a vicious attack on or slight of Christmas. These are nothing other than simple friendly phrases. For those who can’t stand either, try this one: "Happy Holy Days." Then just be happy, and try to avoid stress.

Gazette.com