In a recent encounter at a grocery store, the cashier handed me my bags and cheerfully said, “Thanks a lot! Merry Christmas!” I returned the sentiment with a polite, “Merry Christmas to you as well.” However, I should clarify that I do not personally celebrate Christmas. Yet, I find it courteous to respond warmly when someone wishes me well during their holiday.
What truly perplexes me is the notion that opting for “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas” is somehow offensive, and that this preference is viewed as inciting a “war on Christmas.” This perspective feels exceedingly narrow-minded, especially in a society rich with diverse traditions and beliefs.
The rhetoric has intensified, particularly with statements from public figures who claim to represent all citizens. For instance, our former president made it clear multiple times that he wants “Merry Christmas” to be the standard greeting in stores across the country. He stated, “When I become president, we’re gonna be saying ‘Merry Christmas’ at every store…every store.” Such comments suggest a misunderstanding of inclusivity in our multicultural nation.
It’s worth noting that while Christmas is a federal holiday, it does not encompass the entirety of American beliefs. Approximately one-third of the population identifies with faiths other than Christianity. Between Thanksgiving and the New Year, numerous religious observances occur, including those of Bahá’ís, Buddhists, Jews, Hindus, Muslims, and others. This diversity is precisely why many choose to say “Happy Holidays”—it’s not an attempt to undermine Christmas, but rather a way to include everyone’s traditions.
To clarify, I have no issue with individuals saying “Merry Christmas.” Rather, the concern arises when there’s an expectation to say it, accompanied by indignation when someone opts for a more inclusive greeting. Doesn’t that reaction seem a bit overly sensitive? It baffles me why anyone would take offense at a phrase meant to embrace all traditions. Why should one’s celebrated holiday demand exclusive acknowledgment?
The America I cherish is one that embraces its citizens’ varied beliefs. It would be disheartening to see us retreat from this core value simply because of a public figure’s grievances with an inclusive greeting. May this holiday season bring joy and peace to everyone, no matter how they choose to celebrate.
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Summary
This article examines the expectation for people to say “Merry Christmas” and challenges the notion that saying “Happy Holidays” is offensive. It underscores the importance of inclusivity in a diverse society, highlighting that recognizing different traditions fosters harmony.
Keyphrase: “Is It Necessary for Everyone to Say ‘Merry Christmas’ Anymore?”
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