I am proud to live in a country where all religions are welcomed and practiced. I’m proud to be part of the ‘polite country’ that is not quick to anger. Some might say that we are passive, or apathetic, or cowards, because we don’t seem to ‘stand up’ for ourselves. Perhaps this is true in some instances, but I like to think Canadians realize that there isn’t one way of doing things, or one right answer. When you see all sides to a problem, making a decision becomes less of a hot headed, raw raw, angry outrage, and more of a discussion.
However, in the name of unity and being inclusive, we are beginning to exclude an entire religious group. If someone said to you, Happy Hanukkah, or Happy Chinese New Year, would you become offended? Personally, I would not, and if you would that is your choice. When someone says these words to me, they are essentially saying ‘Bless you,’ or ‘have a good day’, just with different words. These are all nice things, not intended to curse or offend me, so if I choose to take it that way, that is really my choice. No one is saying - you must become Jewish.
But for some reason the phrase “Merry Christmas” has become dangerous and threatening. We can’t say it in work settings or in schools. I remember when I was in school learning about different traditions like Chinese New Year, making lanterns and different crafts to commemorate it, I was not confused or threatened by another culture's celebration, instead my understanding of the world and friends was enriched.
The more cultures that become part of Canada’s melting pot the better, but our country was colonized by a Christian society, and we can’t take that out of our history.
Unfortunately, Christmas has become consumer mania, and you and I both dislike that, but every year I continue to buy presents and expect to receive them, so I am partially to blame in this game. Still, I don’t want my kids growing up and thinking that Christmas is the time of year we celebrate Santa Claus coming and consumerism. My kids will know the meaning behind it, and the joy it brings.
This year, when I wish you Merry Christmas, I hope, even if you don’t believe in or celebrate the tradition, that you will know that I am wishing you happiness and love for this coming year. And if you in turn say “Happy Holidays”, I will assume you mean the same.
-Sara
However, in the name of unity and being inclusive, we are beginning to exclude an entire religious group. If someone said to you, Happy Hanukkah, or Happy Chinese New Year, would you become offended? Personally, I would not, and if you would that is your choice. When someone says these words to me, they are essentially saying ‘Bless you,’ or ‘have a good day’, just with different words. These are all nice things, not intended to curse or offend me, so if I choose to take it that way, that is really my choice. No one is saying - you must become Jewish.
But for some reason the phrase “Merry Christmas” has become dangerous and threatening. We can’t say it in work settings or in schools. I remember when I was in school learning about different traditions like Chinese New Year, making lanterns and different crafts to commemorate it, I was not confused or threatened by another culture's celebration, instead my understanding of the world and friends was enriched.
The more cultures that become part of Canada’s melting pot the better, but our country was colonized by a Christian society, and we can’t take that out of our history.
Unfortunately, Christmas has become consumer mania, and you and I both dislike that, but every year I continue to buy presents and expect to receive them, so I am partially to blame in this game. Still, I don’t want my kids growing up and thinking that Christmas is the time of year we celebrate Santa Claus coming and consumerism. My kids will know the meaning behind it, and the joy it brings.
This year, when I wish you Merry Christmas, I hope, even if you don’t believe in or celebrate the tradition, that you will know that I am wishing you happiness and love for this coming year. And if you in turn say “Happy Holidays”, I will assume you mean the same.
-Sara
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