I think that people worldwide recognize the Nativity displays that come up around Christmas. Although, it’s not too often that I see them anymore. Photo: Big Stock Photo
What do you say? “Merry Christmas!” “Happy Holidays!” or “Happy Kwanzaa!”
However you celebrate the holidays and wish people well is up to you. But I’m so curious as to why there is so much sensitivity to wishing people a Merry Christmas? I have come to second guess it when I talk to people I don’t know. If I buy something in the store, I sometime start to think, “Do they celebrate Christmas?”
I remember being told to be careful of how you wish others well during the holiday season, just in case people don’t celebrate Christmas. But, on occasion people have said, “Happy Hanukkah” and even Kwanzaa to me and I haven’t been offended or even given it second thought that they didn’t say “Merry Christmas.” Nor did I expect them to cater to me and wish me Merry Christmas instead.
I know when I wish people Merry Christmas, if they celebrate Kwanazaa, I’m not saying to be offensive or rude to them, I’m wishing them a happy holiday season. When I say Merry Christmas, I’m being joyful; I’m hoping to spread some cheer to the people I see.
I don’t think saying “Merry Christmas” is about condoning or shoving another belief aside, or leaving it out. It’s just what comes out of some people’s mouths in the spirit of the seasons. Why are people getting so offended?
I haven’t known much About Kwanzaa, but it’s a common one from what I’ve heard. Photo: Big Stock Photo
Whether I’m signing a card, sending an email, or opening the door to someone, I don’t like having to wonder, “Should I say happy holidays? Is Merry Christmas OK?”
So I’m not going to second-guess. If I want to say Merry Christmas, or if I know someone celebrates Kwanzaa, then I’ll say both, acknowledging that everyone has his or her own way of celebration and honoring holidays. Or maybe I’ll change it up and say “Happy Christmas and Merry New Year!”
Dec. 25 draws near, and all over the world, families gather to celebrate each other, open presents, go to church, or whatever it is. Families are together, that’s what matters the most.
As Santa Claus famously says, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”