Well, it is the holiday season again and the debate over Christmas and other holidays of the season has begun. I personally do not have much of a problem with Christmas even though I am a Buddhist. I don't mind the Christmas tree and I do not think it should be called a "Holiday Tree" because the tree is symbolic of the Christian holiday of Christmas alone.
I don't even have a problem with the nativity being put on public property as long as the star of David, the Kwanzaa flag and other religious holiday symbols are represented as well. I also do not have a problem with Christmas programs at schools as long as children are taught about the diversity of other holidays of the season. There is plenty of room for all the holidays of the season.
There are several holidays that often get over looked at this time of year such as: Kwanzaa, Chanukah and the Buddhist New Year In my opinion, that is why it is best to say, "Happy Holidays" when talking to strangers.
However, if you know that you are amongst Christians then it is more then acceptable to just simply say, "Merry Christmas" or if you're amongst Jews then, "Happy Chanuka" is the appropriate term or "Happy Kwanzaa" amongst celebrators of that holiday.
I see it as using different words for "you" in the French language. One uses the more formal and respectful "vous" when talking to strangers and the informal, personal, "Tu" with close friends and family.
So since I don't know all of your different religious leanings I say, "Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year!!"
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5 comments:
James,
You forgot Festivus!
Festivus is a nondenominational holiday featured in an episode of Seinfeld, a popular American television sitcom of the 1990s. It was featured on episode number 166 of the show, entitled "The Strike", which first aired on December 18, 1997. Many people, influenced or inspired by Seinfeld, now celebrate the holiday, in varying degrees of seriousness.
According to Seinfeld, Festivus is celebrated each year on December 23, but many people celebrate it other times, often in early December. Its slogan is "A Festivus for the rest of us!". An aluminum pole is generally used in lieu of a Christmas tree or other holiday decoration. Those attending participate in the "Airing of Grievances" which is an opportunity for all to vent their hostilities toward each other, and after a Festivus dinner, The Feats of Strength are performed. Traditionally, Festivus is not over until the head of the household is wrestled to the floor and "pinned".
Happy Festivus to all!
Isabella: Festivus!! Of COURSE!!! How could I forget about FESTIVUS!!
Festivus for the rest of us!!!!!
I love that episode.
Merry Christmas, James!
Tom: What's Christmas? lol.
Oh, all right.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS, kind James.
-- Tom
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