‘Happy Holidays’ isn’t an attack on Christmas
’Tis the season when many bemoan the fact that some greet people with “Happy Holidays.” The president has fueled their concerns by saying that he has made it acceptable to once again say “Merry Christmas.”
The atheists I know never have had a problem saying “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Hanukkah.” The have a Christmas tree, exchange gifts, enjoy Christmas carols and exult in the spirit of giving and sharing joy with family and friends. Like it or not, Christmas has become a secular holiday as well as a religious celebration. It is even celebrated abroad in non-Christian countries.
There are those from the religious right who would have you believe there is a war on Christianity in this country. There isn’t. To secular Americans, the right to believe or not to believe inherent in the First Amendment is as precious to a nonbeliever as it is to the most devout Christian or Jew.
So, as the holidays approach, here is wishing everyone the joy of the season. Celebrate it with love and brotherhood. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Joyous Kwanza and Happy Holidays.
Tom Bauer, Morro Bay
This story was originally published December 12, 2017 at 12:02 PM with the headline "‘Happy Holidays’ isn’t an attack on Christmas."