Christmas or Holidays

[margypops]

I have noticed recently here In California of leaving out out the Traditional word of Christmas or Xmas , and even schools are saying Holidays, I dont see it as Politically incorrect for children to have a Xmas concert at school . the stores are all wishing us Happy holidays and in fact everyone is saying that. I appreciate there is Hannukah , I dont say holidays to any jewish friends, it would be Happy Hannukah to them .What are your views and is it the same in your state or is it  only here.

[lonewolf07]

I'm about as far left as a person can go and still think there is nothing wrong with saying Merry Christmas nor would I be offended - in fact, I'd be complimented, if someone wished me Happy Chanukka or the Muslim, Hindu or other religious/cultural equivalent.  IMHO it's a lot better than hostilities.  Who am I to judge the validity of someone else's belief system.

Sarah - amen, you got that right.

[ILADVOCATE]

Well exactly my point and more power to you!! And let everyone enjoy their holidays as they see fit.

[dominosarah]

I have been following this thread today.  I am from the substance abuse forum.  I am a drug addict in recovery.  Everyday i come to this forum and try and help others who are struggling.  Doesnt have to be Christmas or not.........Look at all the forums and journal entries........they are being answered.  Everyone is trying to help the ones who are suffering and yes this is a bad time of the year for many but we are here and we are doing what we can...why? because we all have moral standards too and try to give back what we have been given.   I know you help others who have disabilities and that is great but look around these forums and see the great things the rest of us are doing.     sara

[ILADVOCATE]

No I think I got what people are saying. There are three reasons people celebrate Christmas.
1. The religious celebration
2. Just to give gifts
3. As a nice occasion for children
I got that take. The people who are religious see the other side as detracting from their relgious freedom and the people are non religious perhaps see the way its presented as invasive. That's my take. I'd really be more interested if we could all find something in common. I certain wouldn't detract from anyone's Christmas celebrations. Perhaps I'm a bit depressed that I am still homebound from my physical disability which wasn't true last year and won't be able to attend any occassions whether they are called "holiday parties" or "Christmas parties" or the like. But I would never take away anyone's happiness or enjoyment in life. But I try to do the best to live mine within moral standards and give back to others.
   And if anyone has any kind words of support for each other for the holidays (and this does apply, I know some people in my family who celebrate Hanunkah and in a serious religious manner) it would be wonderful. I am recovered mentally and my disability is physical. But I know for many people with depression or other mental issues they are coping with have things worsen during this time of year. If that happens, let's give them a word of support, regardless of belief system and I do think within the spirit of Christmas it would be a kind thing to do especially as people are downsized during a reccesion. Let's all remember our humanity and give some support to those less fortunate including people who may post here. Its the decent thing to do. And I'm not saying people don't. It would just be sad if what is supposed to be a joyous occassion brought out any other feelings in us, myself included.

[jollyman069]

hey burrrrrr.. i think he has a burrrrrrrrrrrrrr under his skin god bless and MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT  HO HO HO

[ILADVOCATE]

Actually I read your profile and saw that you were in the Marine Corps. I'm sure you've done a lot to defend our country and I wouldn't say otherwise. I wasn't saying America as a country has treated its soldiers badly. I was saying that I have worked with people who returned from active service and didn't get what they deserved in the way of healthcare and I supported them in their cause. Of course if you were in active duty in war you did far more than me in putting your life on the line for our country. I was pointing out that I don't see myself as the opposition to people who are patriotic or believe in God. I am not Christian. Truthfully my family was Jewish so if I were to go back to being a believer it would be to that.
  But America was founded on religious freedom. So although I wouldn't detract from your beliefs I wouldn't have to subscribe to them either. I actually do understand what people are saying in that they feel their right to celebrate Christmas in an observant manner is being taken away from them. And that would be considered a violation of religious freedom. That would be a concern. I don't detract though from the teachings of Jesus. They preach love, understanding and compassion for others. They are just not my specific belief system.
  There are some things we will have to agree to disagree on. But we can agree that America is a country founded on freedom. And that religious freedom is part of that. And that on Christmas you will have a freedom of religion our country was founded on. And we as Americans have many freedoms other people in the world don't have. And you have actively defended them. And with what I do as an advocate for people with disabilities I am able to because of many of those same freedoms. And I should be thankful for people like you regardless of any differences we might have otherwise.