Americans demanding end to generic holiday
At what point does the recognition that there are several holidays at this time of year become a "war on Christmas"?
If neighbors complain about a house with a nativity scene in someone's yard, then I think that's going too far. (Although I don't think I would like this in my neighborhood.) But what if a stranger, an individual or business, fails to wish me Merry Christmas?
If I get a pleasant greeting from a stranger, I take it in the manner it was given and reply the same way. It's just nice to see someone who is still cheerfully greeting others. If a business sends out a flyer or catalog that wishes me Happy Holidays instead of Merry Christmas, why should I care? I think that Christmas is too commercial anyway so the lack of a Christmas greeting isn't something I'm going to miss. These are businesses, I'm not going to get in a tizzy just because they aren't marketing only to the holiday that I celebrate.
When I shop in the stores my concern is whether or not I get good service. Is the item I want in stock? Are there enough sales people and cashiers? Are they cordial and helpful or do I get the feeling that I'm an inconvenience to them? I'm shopping for gifts, not new buddies, and I don't wish to pretend that our relationship is anything but a business transaction. If I've bought something that is obviously Christmas related or mentioned that I'm shopping for a Christmas present and the salesperson wishes me a Merry Christmas as I leave, that might earn them and the store a mental brownie point for paying attention but I'm not going to stop shopping there if they don't say it as long as the service was good.
Whatever the form a holiday wish takes, it is like a gift because it's the thought that counts. Being offended that it wasn't tailored especially to fit you is churlish and self-centered.
Posted by marybeth at December 10, 2005 01:36 PM Other Stuff