Yes, 'is the season when everyone is smiling and happy and wishing everyone merriment ... except for my Christian friends who say "merry Christmas" with a visiousness that immediately implies that they threw down a challenge and are daring me to not say it back. Sheesh, Merry Christmas already! and happy holidays and whatever else makes anyone happy.
My bible-thumpy friends have been blogging about what assholes (those who say "happy holidays" and call Christmas trees "Holiday trees") we are. Makes me never want to use the word "Christmas" again. December 25th is ONE DAY -- and not even the correct date.
I celebrate everything. Christmas, Hannukah, Festivus, New Year's and Ninja Day. There is a lot going on this time of year. So, at home I may talk about Christmas and the memories it brings to me of Mom and Grandparents and excitement waiting for Santa, but when I'm out and about I know there are lots of people who don't celebrate that particular holiday. Or, like me, they celebrate it without the religious aspects. Or it's full-on Jesus mania for others. Great! Enjoy it! But don't get mad at me for saying "Happy Holidays" just to be polite. I know you won't be offended if I wish you the merriment of a holiday you don't celebrate. But I'm covering my bases.
So why so angry? Nothing is happening to your holidays. If anything, they are bigger than ever. Each year getting more overstuffed and bloated. Starting before Halloween now. Yet you want more, more? Who is suppressing whom? Certainly not me. I'm offering a friendly greeting, and being scolded for it.
So next time you're out and about and want to say "Merry Christmas" to me, just say it. And leave off the "and I don't care if that offends you!" part because that snotty attitude takes the sincerity out of your greeting. You might be surprised at how much more friendly people will be when they reply. Might even end in a hug.
Happy holidays. Peace and love to ALL!! :) xoxo
