I read an article the other day about someone who
unapologetically and proudly says “Merry Christmas” to people as she goes
through her holiday activities. To her, it’s an enthusiastic and joyful
expression of her holiday, and she wants everyone to know and experience her happiness.
Several times this season, I was the recipient of “Merry Christmas,” rather
than the other, more “inclusive” expressions, like “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s
Greetings.” At the grocery store, at Starbucks (refuting the Starbucks is
anti-Christmas claims of the crazies out there), and at restaurants. It didn’t
bother me, certainly, because I imagine everyone is able to say what they want
to celebrate the holidays.
Me, personally? I have always preferred a solid “Happy
Holidays.” I don’t know why, and I could never explain the origin of it, but to
say “Merry Christmas,” feels kinda weird to me. And “Happy Holidays” is a
perfect, generic, and easy expression for me.
But here’s the thing. When someone says “Merry Christmas” to
me, am I compelled to say it back? Do they feel like I’m sending a gentle
rebuke when I reply with “Happy Holidays” instead? I hope not. This world has
gotten so crazy, that now, I fear for offending someone because I prefer an
ambiguous and generic greeting, rather than the overtly religious greeting. So
bizarre.
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