Different holidays, different greetings but the same joy
The debate on whether we should say “Happy Holidays” or “Merry Christmas” during this season has been around for decades. There was a time when “Merry Christmas” was the most common greeting in the United States, but as the demographic diversity grows in the U.S., we observe many more holidays from other cultures and religions such as Hanukkah, a holiday observed by Jewish people, and Kwanzaa, a tradition celebrated by African-Americans. The inclusive term “Happy Holidays,” as a result, has become more common.
The debate sometimes becomes serious as some people feel offended if not greeted in what they think is the appropriate manner. For example, if someone says “Happy Hanukkah” to someone not Jewish or “Merry Christmas” to someone not Christian, some people get insulted. That’s why greetings for a specific holiday are not allowed to be said in some workplaces. Yet, some people find that offensive because they feel their holiday is not valued enough, and it diminishes their “reason for the season.”
Now the question is should we take the debate seriously, or should we appreciate all the greetings as we embrace our diversity?
Cultural and religious diversity is what makes our country distinctive, and we should be proud of it. Different groups of people celebrate different holidays, but we all share the same joy and delight during this season. My family is not associated with Christianity, but I always appreciate people saying “Merry Christmas” to me because we are all celebrating this season together.
I would feel the same way if my Jewish friends said “Happy Hanukkah” to me because it means that they wanted me to be included in their celebration, and I enjoy that.
The specific holiday in a greeting does not matter. It is how we celebrate together and the intent behind the greetings that matters. Therefore, if someone greets you with “Happy Holidays,” “Happy Hanukkah,” “Merry Christmas” or any other holiday greetings, just say “thank you” and wish them the same!
