As the night deepens and the world around me quiets, my thoughts drift to the joys of the holiday season. What’s a girl like me—a Jewish woman who celebrates Hanukkah—doing pondering Christmas? Well, yes, I am indeed Jewish, and while Christmas may not be my holiday, it certainly permeates our lives in a way that’s impossible to ignore.
The twinkling lights, the cheerful Santas, the delightful reindeer—Christmas is everywhere, and it’s truly enchanting. Regardless of how you celebrate, I deeply respect your traditions because they are significant to you and your family. I admire the warmth of family gatherings and the joy that faith can inspire.
My curiosity about different customs runs deep, and I want my children to embrace the richness of our diverse world. They should know there’s a vast array of cultures and beliefs that make life so vibrant and intriguing.
That said, I find it a bit strange when people unconditionally wish “Merry Christmas” to everyone they encounter, expecting the same in return. The reality is, not everyone celebrates Christmas. My daughter’s classroom is a tapestry of cultures. Just last week, she came home buzzing with excitement after learning about Eid from her classmates. They shared their experiences, and she appreciated the diversity around her. However, she didn’t wish anyone a “Happy Eid” or “Merry Christmas.” She understands that everyone has different celebrations, and that’s what makes life beautiful.
Grace and kindness should be at the forefront of our interactions. It’s about recognizing and respecting each other’s traditions, rather than assuming everyone shares the same beliefs. It’s not about diminishing Christmas but rather about making space for everyone else.
During my time as a public school teacher, I decorated Christmas trees, made reindeer art, and participated in holiday celebrations from various cultures, including Kwanzaa and Hanukkah. I invited families to share their traditions, and in doing so, we all learned so much from one another. This acknowledgment of our differences and similarities should be the norm everywhere.
So when you hear “Merry Christmas” from me, please know it’s not an attempt to offend. It’s a heartfelt wish for happiness, just as “Happy Holidays” conveys the same sentiment. I’m simply wishing you well, without making any assumptions about your beliefs.
So, in the spirit of inclusivity: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Eid, or simply—Happy Holidays!
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In summary, let’s embrace the spirit of the season and appreciate the beautiful tapestry of traditions that surround us. Let’s celebrate one another with open hearts and minds.