If you see me this month, and I say, “Happy Holidays!”, please don’t be upset with me!
In recent years, there has been so much stress over this subject, thinking that when we say “Happy Holidays” we are trying to de-value the importance or faith of some people. That is not my thought, nor my intention.
If I know without a doubt that you celebrate Christmas (December 25), I will probably say “Merry Christmas!” to you. If I know without a doubt that you celebrate Hanukkah (December 25 – Jan 2), I will probably say “Happy Hanukkah!” to you.
If I know without a doubt that you observe the Muslim Ashura (December 5), I will probably say, “I wish you an easy fast…” If you are a big Seinfeld fan, I might assume that you celebrate Festivus (December 23) and say, “Happy Festivus … for the rest of us!”
Please know that however I greet you I am doing my best to greet you with respe and wish the best of life to you!
“Happy Holidays” is not an attack on any one celebration, but actually is giving a nod to all! “Happy Holidays” is actually an abbreviated way of saying, Happy Holy Days… so actually can’t we listen for reverence and respect of whatever holiday it is that each of us observes in the greeting?
I celebrate Christmas — but I also celebrate Hanukkah simply because I love both traditions! Christmas is a time to love, serve, and forgive others. Jesus taught us to love God, love our neighbors, and forgive others.
Hanukkah is a holiday of rededication, and a reminder that even in times of darkness, we can light a candle and kindle hope. Can’t we all simply respect that others have holidays of their own in the same month, and greet each other with wishes of love, peace and kindness?
So remember, if I see you this month and wish you “Happy Holidays”, I am doing so with the highest regards! Happy Holy Days everyone! And Happy New Year too!
