I just left a lengthy comment on a friend's facebook page and was a bit pleased with the result of my efforts, so here it is: My thoughts on "Merry Christmas" vs. "Happy Holidays."
Regardless of our country's founding principles, not everyone celebrates Christmas. If I told a Jew "Merry Christmas," then he or she might easily be offended, just as I'd be a little put off if that same person wished me a Happy Hanukkah. To me, the most galling thing about the whole debate is the assumption by one party that everyone ought to celebrate one holiday and forget about the rest. Such an assumption lacks courtesy and respect. I'm fine with folks who devoutly celebrate Christmas - I used to be one of them. However, when devotion to one faith leads to dismissal and disrespect of the others, that faith has lost its beauty, like a stained glass window lying shattered in the mud.
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So there you have it. Regardless of which tradition you follow, I hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
Monday, November 23, 2009
The War on Christmas
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"However, when devotion to one faith leads to dismissal and disrespect of the others, that faith has lost its beauty." Excellently put, and completely true.
ReplyDeleteIf we really were trying to be Christian and follow the teachings of Jesus -- you know, that whole "love your neighbor" malarkey? -- then we would respect those who have different views, instead of trying to persecute and oppress them the way the early Christians were...