SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

During this joyous season, we are still faced with those who feel compelled to complain about anyone saying “Happy Holidays” as opposed to a hearty “Merry Christmas.”  I myself have caught such grief, since I am one who is quite prone to use the phrase “Happy Holidays!”  It isn’t a lack of religion, and it is not an attempt to be politically correct at the expense of Christmas.  Oh, and I certainly am NOT attempting to remove Christ from Christmas, nor am I declaring a “War on Christmas.”  The answer is much simpler for me.  I have traveled extensively around this globe, and I have friends who are representative of several different faiths, religions, and holidays.  I also happened to notice that the relatively universal “New Years Day” is also part of the season.  

Now comes the confession, the honest truth is that I’m just too damn lazy to remember who does what in my circle of friends.  I’m doing good to remember what I’m doing for any particular holiday, so the ubiquitous “Happy Holidays” seems to cover my bases.  Now if you wish me a “Merry Chrismahuanakwanza” or a “Happy Festivus for the Restofus” then that is what you’ll get in return.  For my part, I’ve not declared war on any holiday, religious or otherwise, with the one possible exception of “Columbus Day.”  I think we should probably rename that one the “Hose the Native Americans” day, or “Cheat the Norse out of a holiday” Day.  Aside from that, if I wish you a Happy Holidays, then take it in the spirit in which it is delivered, since for my part that includes all of the holidays in the season, not just mine. ~ Michael S. Pauley