There has been a big controversey brewing in the papers in Chicago about saying Happy Holidays to people instead of Merry Christmas around this time of year. Many people bemoan the taking of the religion out of the holiday season. In our politically correct society, we have created new "holidays" to accomodate everyone like Festivus (ala Seinfeld) and Christmakkah. According to a Seinfeld website, Festivus is:
"is a holiday invented by George Costanza’s father. It is celebrated on December 23 and involves such beloved traditions as the Airing of Grievances and the Feats of Strength. Instead of a tree, there’s a pole -you won’t be distracted by all that tinsel."
My take is that if you know what holiday the person celebrates, wish them a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah or Happy Kwanza. If you don’t, then just smile, laugh and wish them Happy Holidays and a great new year. Let’s not get caught up in the language. Let’s enjoy the holidays. My only regret is that all this holiday cheer only happens in December. I wish we could enjoy the good will all year long.
