I am not a big fan of Christmas anymore - besides my usual complaint ( that it arrives in the cold season, and I just can't be too excited over anything that happens in Winter), the holiday, for most of us, is full of rushing around, stress, and too much work! Most of the true meaning of Christmas has really been lost, but some of it is still around.... for the past few weeks, I hear the greetings exchanged between many types of people, in many different locations and jobs. "Merry Christmas!" "Happy Holidays!" "Season's Greetings!" - It's like everyone suddenly realizes that we should be a little kinder and a little more considerate towards one another - too bad it doesn't last!
Unfortunately, there's a very silly (IMHO) controversey going on in this country nowadays - some people are dropping the "Christmas" in greetings, claiming that it's referring to Jesus Christ, and that should not be forced on others who are not religious or who may not BELIEVE in the Christian faith. For me, it is just a pleasant, friendly greeting that has been around for decades - that's all. It is like saying, "God Bless You" when someone sneezes - when I say it, do I actually THINK that evil spirits are being expelled and I have to say ia phrase to keep them away? Seriously? Of course not! It has just been around so long it is considered a polite thing to say. Some of those people are even complaining about "Christmas" trees! I think they really need to find something else to concern themselves with!
Is this my favorite holiday? No. Am I religious? Not at all. But do I have a "Holiday Tree"? Noooo...I have a Christmas tree! What do I do when someone tells me "Merry Christmas"? Do I chase them down the street and tell them I'm insulted by the phrase? NO! I either say "Thank you! The same to you!" or "Merry Christmas!" back! All I know is that someone took the time to tell me something nice, and I really appreciate that.
I have and will say "Merry Christmas" to many more people, now and in the future. And if you are Muslim, or Jewish, or belong to the church of Scientology, please take it in the context it is given - I am just expressing a kind greeting to you, same as if I would say, "Have a wonderful day" and I hope you will reply in kind.
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