Why I say Happy Holidays

I've found myself lately stammering over words when I want to wish someone a joyous holiday season. I caught myself doing this during a recent store visit after a pleasant exchange with a sales associate. I reached for my bags and said "Happy Holidays!" and then mumbled "I meant Merry Christmas." As I walked back to my car, I asked myself what was that all about.

You see, I am a Christian and my best friend is a Muslim. Our faith has NEVER impacted our relationship. She has been there for me in my darkest hours and she is someone I can always count on. Along the way, I have had close friendships with Jews, Hindus and Muslims and my interactions with them are no different than my interactions with my Christian or non-believer friends. We get together and laugh and enjoy each other's company. When times get tough, and they often do, we listen and support one another. We live in the human experience. Before we choose a religion, we have to remember the humanity in our existence.

So, I won't apologize for saying Happy Holidays. I know that the world is greater than my viewpoint allows and Christmas isn't a holiday observed by everyone and that's okay with me. I don't feel threatened or offended if someone doesn't celebrate it. I want to say Happy Holidays because my sincere wish is that the holiday season of December and New Year's is a joyous one-complete with happiness and memories that transcend religion and beliefs.

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