We are creating a nation of numb, dumb, intolerant individuals. A friend posted on FB today that he joined the group “It’s Christmas” not “Happy Holidays”. I agree. All this political correct garbage is teaching intolerance, not acceptance.
When did it become okay for individuals not to recognize and respect other cultures? If this country was founded on tolerance and freedom, why do we keep stripping it away? Why is it that we believe it offends one culture to say Merry Christmas, instead of thinking the individual of another culture would be happy for or respect the celebration? Did we really go to the extreme because of a few intolerant angry people?
I’m turning the table on this one. I find it disrespectful not to say “Merry Christmas” to an individual. I find it more disrespectful for an individual who does not believe in the celebration to take offense. If you don’t celebrate Christmas, have the respect to communicate what you do celebrate! If you are an individual who does not “celebrate”, well then, be tolerant of those of us who do.
Here are some great celebrations -
When I lived in San Francisco, I loved to walk through China Town during Chinese New Year. It’s an awesome celebration and one that every individual should experience.
A good friend in high school would invite me to her home during Chanukah. I really enjoyed hearing the recital of prayer, lighting one of the candles and sharing the story of a Jewish army. I felt honored that she shared her belief.
Kwanzaa is a celebration of family, heritage, unity and culture. I’m not sure how anyone could see this as an offensive holiday. I wish I had a weeklong celebration that honored my heritage. The robes worn by African Americans during Kwanzaa are beautiful.
Mawlid an-Nabi is the celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad for the Muslim faith. They celebrate by focusing on the life and teachings of Muhammad, singing songs and offering special prayers. A special part of this day is remembering how Muhammad forgave even his most bitter enemies.
Vesak is the birthday of the Buddha and the most important festival in Buddhism. On the first full moon day in May, Buddhists all over the world celebrate the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha in a single day. It’s just my personal opinion that everyone needs to take some tips from this religion that is focused on leading a moral life, being mindful and aware of thoughts and actions, and developing wisdom and understanding.
Oh yes, Christmas, the commemoration of the birth of Jesus, an individual who also forgave his most bitter enemies and who taught tolerance and love. Christmas has now taken on many meanings and forms. It is celebrated throughout the Christian population and has also taken on a celebration of economic culture by many non-Christians. Whether celebrated for religious beliefs, or an economic festival, Christmas is a fabulous holiday of peace and giving.
Embracing the uniqueness of cultures and celebrating with all will bring this country closer together. Being so damn politically correct is turning our backs on the freedoms we so love and is creating a culture of intolerance and fear.
Go celebrate for religious, cultural or festive reasons – the economy needs it!