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kahlua716
3 Girls for Me!
Member since 8/07 12475 total posts
Name:
Keri
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Beth- I'm confused (it's easy to do  ). Do you think of Happy Holidays as a Christian sentiment or is it all encompassing?
to tell us to have a happy holiday that we don't celebrate, while we are celebrating another holiday that has some serious meaning to us, may come across as dismissive.
Message edited 12/5/2008 9:53:32 AM.
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Posted 12/5/08 9:51 AM  |
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Long Island Weddings
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seaside
LIF Adult
Member since 6/08 3101 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
I'm just curious. Those who think this is no big deal: how would you feel if the head of your company got up and thanked "all of the good hardworking men who make this place what it is." Would you balk? Would you want to be told you're being too sensitive? The workforce is no longer made up entirely of men, and this country is not and those with the right to spend $$ are not exclusively Christian.
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| Posted 12/5/08 9:54 AM |
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Kara
Now Zagat Rated!
Member since 3/07 13217 total posts
Name:
They call me "Tater Salad"
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by 5ofClubs
I think people get uptight during the holiday's and need to relax!! Just be happy they are not telling you to f off or something!!
Just say thank you and walk away. People are just trying to be nice. They are not trying to convert you or anything.
I agree.
No one is trying to convert anyone or take away anyone's freedom to celebrate whatever holiday you want to celebrate. No one is trying to dismiss other views or discriminate against you.
If people can't accept "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Hanukkah" as anything other than a desire to spread good wishes to you, then I think you need to take a step back and relax... Take Beth's idea and just wish them good wishes for the holiday YOU celebrate. I think that's the best idea I've heard.
(And, FTR, I have no problem with Happy Holidays either. I'm not someone out to make store clerk's say Merry Christmas or anything... I just sure don't offended when people wish me a happy sentiment related to ANY holiday.)
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| Posted 12/5/08 9:56 AM |
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Bxgell2
Perfection
Member since 5/05 16438 total posts
Name:
Beth
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by kahlua716
Beth- I'm confused (it's easy to do ). Do you think of Happy Holidays as a Christian sentiment or is it all encompassing?
to tell us to have a happy holiday that we don't celebrate, while we are celebrating another holiday that has some serious meaning to us, may come across as dismissive.
No, I'm saying when someone says "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays", which is more inclusive and generous.
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| Posted 12/5/08 9:58 AM |
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Kara
Now Zagat Rated!
Member since 3/07 13217 total posts
Name:
They call me "Tater Salad"
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by Bxgell2
Posted by kahlua716
Beth- I'm confused (it's easy to do ). Do you think of Happy Holidays as a Christian sentiment or is it all encompassing?
to tell us to have a happy holiday that we don't celebrate, while we are celebrating another holiday that has some serious meaning to us, may come across as dismissive.
No, I'm saying when someone says "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays", which is more inclusive and generous.
I understood what you meant Beth and thought your post was great.
I think a little understanding on BOTH sides is important. Using "merry Christmas" as an example... "Merry Christmas-ers" need to understand WHY some people may feel offended or uncomfortable by what they are saying and people who don't celebrate Christmas need to also understand that someone who wishes them a Merry Christmas isn't trying to offend or be rude or discriminate. A little understanding goes a long way. Thanks for your post. 
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:02 AM |
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CaseyGirl
Mommy to 3 Boys :)
Member since 5/05 19978 total posts
Name:
Jen - counting my blessings...
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
I think it's more about what sentiment you are trying to get across..some people don't realize and their intentions are good.
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:03 AM |
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Shelly
She's 7!!!
Member since 8/05 14624 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by Bxgell2
Ok, let me play devil's advocate here for a moment, adding a HUGE caveat that, personally, *I* am not offended when someone wishes me a merry xmas, I merely retort "happy hanukah".
BUT, I *can* see why a little sensitivity goes a long way and why some would be offended. I think it is VERY easy to say it's no big deal and that you should just accept the "merry" sentiment, if you are coming from a majority point of view.
But, as someone who is a minority, and whose cultural background is very significant to her, I think this sentiment glosses over something that has some really serious meaning to some.
You have to understand that there are many, MANY of us, particularly in NY, who, up until only a few decades ago, would have been stoned, thrown in a ghetto, or worse, had we celebrated our holidy openly and with pride. Our ancestors, not so far, and in fact, many still living, paid a huge, HUGE price for us to happily enjoy our little holiday, light our candles, and wish one another a happy hanukah in public.
So, yes, I get that it's a happy sentiment, but to those of us who celebrate another holiday that has quite a bit of meaning and historical/family significance, to tell us to have a happy holiday that we don't celebrate, while we are celebrating another holiday that has some serious meaning to us, may come across as dismissive.
ITA!
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:05 AM |
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seaside
LIF Adult
Member since 6/08 3101 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
I agree with the PP. But wishing random customers about whom you know nothing a merry Christmas automatically is ignorant (but harmless). The OP's point (I think) is that being categorically opposed to the more inclusive version because it's more inclusive is offensive and prejudiced.
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:05 AM |
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Bxgell2
Perfection
Member since 5/05 16438 total posts
Name:
Beth
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
I agree wholeheartedly- this is why, personally, I am not offended, but I do retort back with my holiday because it is something that is meaningful to me. I'm never offended - instead, I try to be "educational" in return, if that makes sense.
Message edited 12/5/2008 10:07:05 AM.
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:06 AM |
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2BEANS
wow time is going fast.
Member since 9/07 16106 total posts
Name:
Tina
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Lets face it.. People like to complain.. and this is just one more thing to do so about.
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:07 AM |
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pinkandblue
Our family is complete, maybe
Member since 9/05 32436 total posts
Name:
Stephanie
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by Kara
Posted by charon54
Posted by JennZ
People should just lighten up a bit. There is SO much other stuff to worry about. Life is just to short. Be glad someone said ANYTHING to you.
The lady in Target Wed told me to "Have a God Bless Christmas and a God Bless baby". While I would not have said either, I was like  when I walked away. It was sweet.
See and that would have bothered me a little. Don't bless me. You don't know my religion. I don't need to be blessed by a store clerk. I am in favor of Happy Holidays because it is inclusive.
but it really wouldn't offend me. I'm sure the person means well and is offering good wishes. Whether or not you share the same religion or belief in God as well, just take it as a sign of good wishes.
.
I agree completely, with all the hate in the world, I would love if someone would "bless me"...I cannot imagine someone being offended by a good "faith" gesture
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:08 AM |
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JennyPenny
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Member since 1/08 12702 total posts
Name:
Jen
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by 1stimemom
Posted by headoverheels
i agree with you both - who CARES what the sentiment is? people just get offended too easily these days. don't we have better things to worry about than what "holiday greeting" a retailer chooses to use?
ITA!! Who cares? If someone doesn't like the nice sentiment, maybe someone should tell them to have a very sh!tty holiday
 ITA!
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:25 AM |
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Cpt2007
A new love!
Member since 1/08 5946 total posts
Name:
Liz
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Personally, while I celebrate Christmas, I would never wish a stranger "Merry Christmas" b/c I don't know what their background it and I want to be respectful of them, so "Happy Holidays" it is.
I personally find those that get offended at the non-"merrys" a bit ridiculous and frankly, ignorant. But let's face it-- when has Focus on the Family ever paid attention to a non-wedge issue?? I would say never in their existence, and this is right in line with that pattern. JMHO, of course. 
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:35 AM |
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Shelly
She's 7!!!
Member since 8/05 14624 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
One thing I want to add. Personally, I don't get offended AT ALL. I think its nice. I often wish people a Merry Christmas I know they observe Christmas.
For those of us who are minorities in this country, the individual Merry Christmas- I'm sure bothers no one.
But when for (now six) weeks suddenly this country is all about Christmas, it a reminder of how small a minority we are. Here in the NY area- one of the largest Jewish populations IN THE WORLD, someone posted recently about not finding Hanukah decorations. So when many people wish someone who doesn't celebrate a Merry Christmas, on top of the constant Christmas shows, Christmas music, Christmas trees... it can be a bit overwhelming.
And also, please remember that many Jews (including myself) think of Christmas as a sacred holiday where Christians celebrate the brith of their savior. So to us, its a very religious holiday for the Christians.
I guess its just another reminder that we truly are a minority here. So saying "happy holidays" is just a considerate way to wish a good sentiment to people who don't celebrate this very sacred holy days for Christians.
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:39 AM |
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pinkandblue
Our family is complete, maybe
Member since 9/05 32436 total posts
Name:
Stephanie
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by Shelly
One thing I want to add. Personally, I don't get offended AT ALL. I think its nice. I often wish people a Merry Christmas I know they observe Christmas.
For those of us who are minorities in this country, the individual Merry Christmas- I'm sure bothers no one.
But when for (now six) weeks suddenly this country is all about Christmas, it a reminder of how small a minority we are. Here in the NY area- one of the largest Jewish populations IN THE WORLD, someone posted recently about not finding Hanukah decorations. So when many people wish someone who doesn't celebrate a Merry Christmas, on top of the constant Christmas shows, Christmas music, Christmas trees... it can be a bit overwhelming.
And also, please remember that many Jews (including myself) think of Christmas as a sacred holiday where Christians celebrate the brith of their savior. So to us, its a very religious holiday for the Christians.
I guess its just another reminder that we truly are a minority here. So saying "happy holidays" is just a considerate way to wish a good sentiment to people who don't celebrate this very sacred holy days for Christians.
I think you make a very valid point....I ALWAYS say Happy Holidays
I guess cause I am Catholic, I did not see the "big deal"...thanks for explaining in a non-harsh way 
oh, and Happy Holidays to you
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:42 AM |
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MrsPJB2007
MBA at your service!
Member since 7/06 12020 total posts
Name:
MJ
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
i don't care what anyone says to me...happy holidays, merry christmas, happy hannukah, happy festivus, happy kwanza...feliz navidad, joy noel...who FREAKING CARES?!?!? 
people just like to have something to moan and groan about and no matter WHAT time of year it is--they will find a way to feel "offended" by something. i wish people who take offense to any of the holiday sayings being made at them, would just get over themselves. the world has become a OVERLY politically correct mess, whatever happened to just being happy that someone is sharing SOME SORT of holiday spirit with you--why must we dictate how its expressed to us?
i'll take a happy whatever from people instead of a "Eff you" any day of the week.
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:43 AM |
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kahlua716
3 Girls for Me!
Member since 8/07 12475 total posts
Name:
Keri
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by Bxgell2
Posted by kahlua716
Beth- I'm confused (it's easy to do ). Do you think of Happy Holidays as a Christian sentiment or is it all encompassing?
to tell us to have a happy holiday that we don't celebrate, while we are celebrating another holiday that has some serious meaning to us, may come across as dismissive.
No, I'm saying when someone says "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays", which is more inclusive and generous.
I figured thats what you meant. I was just making sure I understood correctly. Thanks 
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:47 AM |
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kahlua716
3 Girls for Me!
Member since 8/07 12475 total posts
Name:
Keri
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by Bxgell2
I agree wholeheartedly- this is why, personally, I am not offended, but I do retort back with my holiday because it is something that is meaningful to me. I'm never offended - instead, I try to be "educational" in return, if that makes sense.
It makes total sense- and I love that response!
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:48 AM |
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headoverheels
s'il vous plaît
Member since 6/07 42079 total posts
Name:
LB
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by MrsPJB2007
i'll take a happy whatever from people instead of a "Eff you" any day of the week.
what she said
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:48 AM |
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JennZ
MY LIFE!!
Member since 8/05 25463 total posts
Name:
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by charon54
Posted by Kara
Posted by charon54
Posted by JennZ
People should just lighten up a bit. There is SO much other stuff to worry about. Life is just to short. Be glad someone said ANYTHING to you.
The lady in Target Wed told me to "Have a God Bless Christmas and a God Bless baby". While I would not have said either, I was like when I walked away. It was sweet.
See and that would have bothered me a little. Don't bless me. You don't know my religion. I don't need to be blessed by a store clerk. I am in favor of Happy Holidays because it is inclusive.
If that's the most bothersome part of your day, then I'd consider it a good day...
I sure wouldn't say it. It's not my style, but it really wouldn't offend me. I'm sure the person means well and is offering good wishes. Whether or not you share the same religion or belief in God as well, just take it as a sign of good wishes.
ETA - probably not the best phrase to use at a business, agreed... but I wouldn't let it bother me at all.
I think that's my point. It is not appropriate for a business to have its workers saying things like God Bless You to someone as they leave. Trust me it's not the worst thing that's ever happened to me and I would never say anything back. I just don't think it is the right expresssion to use. I think saying Merry Christmas is one thing. Probably because to me that phrase is not as relgious as God Bless You. Others may feel differently.
OK, maybe I should have said I live in NC, and Im in a big Bible belt. These folks down here throw around "God Bless" like I say hello. I myself am the least most Religious person ever, and just thought the sentiment behind it was sweet. I said thanks and walked away.
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| Posted 12/5/08 10:50 AM |
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SweetTooth
I'm a tired mommy!
Member since 12/05 20105 total posts
Name:
Lauren
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
I don't think any non-Christians necessarily get offended by "Merry Christmas." Its just a reminder that we are a minority. Its a reminder that when we were little kids we felt left out because our families didn't have Christmas trees and Santa didn't visit our houses.
For those who do celebrate, I think you just don't understand what it is like to walk into a store and see christmas all around you. To want to decorate for your own holiday and find aisles and aisles of Christmas decorations and then one pathetic little table of blue and white paper plated for your holiday. Many of you say you wouldn't care if you were wished a Happy Hanukkah. I have NEVER been in a store at this time of year and been told "Happy Hannukah" by a store associate. When I worked in retail, I would always say "Happy Holidays" so I could include everyone. In the article the OP linked, one of the people interviewed was offended because the store associates would not say "Merry Christmas" to her. To me that is ignorant. What if that person does not celebrate Christmas? He/She should say it anyway because most people do celebrate it?
The bottom line is, I think that any person who is in a majority - whether it be religion, race, gender, whatever, has a hard time seeing the other side because he/she has never been there.
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| Posted 12/5/08 11:28 AM |
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HeathKernandez
Our Ron is an awesome Ron
Member since 4/07 9091 total posts
Name:
baby fish mouth
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Erin Nash is a douche.
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| Posted 12/5/08 11:31 AM |
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HeathKernandez
Our Ron is an awesome Ron
Member since 4/07 9091 total posts
Name:
baby fish mouth
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
so is Michelle Hesse
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| Posted 12/5/08 11:31 AM |
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ArmyOfBabies
Growing older but not up
Member since 7/07 4427 total posts
Name:
Jeri
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
It's funny, I don't care, but I usually say Happy Holidays because I'm Agnostic. I celebrate Christmas because my family does and I try to play up the Santa aspect to DD, lol. If she wants to go to church with DH or my mom, that's fine, it will be her decision to make.
DH gets CRAZY about people saying Happy Holidays, lol. I don't understand why. If you know what holiday someone celebrates, then by all means, use the correct one. But in general when I'm talking to someone who I don't know well enough then I use Happy Holidays.
Otherwise, I'd being saying "Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanzaa(sp?), Happy Winter Solstice and Happy New Year!"
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| Posted 12/5/08 11:40 AM |
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MsMBV
:P
Member since 5/05 28602 total posts
Name:
Me
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Re: I'm absolutely amazed at this: Merry Christmas vs Happy Holidays
Posted by charon54
Posted by JennZ
People should just lighten up a bit. There is SO much other stuff to worry about. Life is just to short. Be glad someone said ANYTHING to you.
The lady in Target Wed told me to "Have a God Bless Christmas and a God Bless baby". While I would not have said either, I was like when I walked away. It was sweet.
See and that would have bothered me a little. Don't bless me. You don't know my religion. I don't need to be blessed by a store clerk. I am in favor of Happy Holidays because it is inclusive.
I kind of agree, but this is a VERY hot topic with me. However, I don't get offended, I just hate that people assume b/c of my appearance, the neighborhood I live in, etc....
I do think that any sentiment is usually from a place that is good, so I tend to just let it go. (From strangers anyway
).
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| Posted 12/5/08 11:40 AM |
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