Yule Tide Greeting

Merry Christmas. . .or, is it Happy Holidays? What is considered "politically correct" these days? Do we now have evergreens be-decked with baubles this time of year, or is it still okay to call it a tree? Please clarify this for me.

The attack on Christmas and it's associated accoutrements is another way this country sterilizes its traditions. I am not a Christian, yet the greeting, "Merry Christmas," does not offend me. I know and appreciate the holiday for what it's supposed to mean - being charitable toward others and offering goodwill. Being greeted with Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy Solstice are also greetings of the season, and they, like the saying from the tree-toting Christians, are words uttered with joy and happiness in the heart - not hatred.

Decorating trees in public places has been a long-standing tradition within this country; yes, the tree is used as a Christian symbol; however, decorated Christmas trees have become local and national symbols of goodwill, charity, love, and hope - it is a reminder for each of us to reach out to those who have fallen on hard times - to remember that all of us are part of a community, a national family. Symbols that stress tolerance and peace should never offend; they should be appreciated for what they bring.

From the cyber-space of Planet Shortbread, I wish you and yours a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, and Solstice - may the light of the new year bring peace to all.