“Merry Christmas!”
It comes out without much thought. It’s a phrase that has been taught by my family. To us, it means so much. It’s a phrase I feel pride in teaching my kids.
Now, however, I get corrected in public when it’s said. Sometimes even scolded being told we should be saying “Happy Holidays” instead. It’s less offensive to all.
I know this post won’t be well-received by all, and that’s 100% ok. I work hard to teach my children to respect others’ beliefs. To be aware of other cultures, religions, and needs. To try their hardest not to offend and to ask if they say/do something that is offensive about why it isn’t ok.
In our house, we celebrate Christmas as a celebration of the birth of Christ. Saying Merry Christmas is a way of sharing our joy we feel this time of year with others.
Instead of feeling offended, I would hope others would know that it comes from a place of love, not an expectation that they also need to believe in what we do. If they replied with Happy Hanukkah or Happy Kwanza, I wouldn’t be upset. I’d see this as a way for my kiddos to learn about others’ beliefs and how they celebrate.
It’s my hope that instead of being offended by a simple phrase, that we use these moments as a way to learn about each other. A way to share our beliefs, our joy and our ways of celebrating in whatever way we believe. That in doing so we gain a better understanding and become less offended by each other. Perhaps in doing so there truly will be Good Will to all.
Whatever your beliefs are, I would love to hear about them. How you share your traditions with your children and grandchildren. Those sweet moments that, as a family, you look forward to year after year.
So from our family, we wish you a Merry Christmas and hope that whatever you are celebrating this time of year brings you joy, love, and peace.
