Sometimes, this time of year, I wish people a Merry Christmas, other times I will say Happy Holidays.  I believe the phrase “Happy Holidays” is fine.

I am a Christian and believe that Christmas is one of the most important religious holidays of the year.  The birth of Jesus Christ should be celebrated.

However, I am aware of what is happening around me.  Not everyone is a Christian.  Some very good people believe differently than I.  Therefore, a wish of Happy Holidays does not diminish my religious beliefs, but it is a polite recognition that there are people of good will who just happen to have a different belief system than my own.

I keep hearing about a “War on Christmas” but if it does in fact exist, there is no perceptible evidence I have seen that it exists.  Christmas appears to be a safe and sound holiday in America.

It should be pointed out that during the 20th Century, Christmas has slowly evolved into a much more commercial event than a religious one in America.  I do find that sad.

Another reason I like to use the phrase Happy Holidays?  It includes not only Christmas, but New Year’s Day as well.

So, when you see me write or hear me say Happy Holidays, it is my view Christmas has not been diminished as a religious holiday for me.  It’s just a recognition there are people with religious beliefs not the same as my own, and I am showing respect to those people.