Twelve Years Later: The Evolution of Greetings and Cultural Dynamics
Join me on a journey through the changing landscape of holiday greetings.
Twelve years ago, I walked into the bank after work. I was immediately greeted by a young woman sitting in a cubicle. “Welcome to US Bank!” she chirped enthusiastically. There wasn't a line, and the first open teller greeted me with equal enthusiasm, "Good evening!" she said. I replied with less enthusiasm but equally as kind. She commented how I was the nicest customer of the day. It was 5 o'clock. I had to make a quick deposit; it was a simple transaction. After a moment, we were done, and she said, "Merry Christmas," as I left.
I've heard many people complain about how they cannot say "Merry Christmas" these days. Our culture has collectively, over the last 20 years (or more) made conscientious efforts towards being more inclusive regarding our December holidays. I know that government agencies regulate work parties. I know that stores commodify the season, making it hard to celebrate giving from the heart.
But no one is forcing anyone to say "Happy Holidays" instead of Merry Christmas. If you don't believe in the Christian story, you don't have to say it. If you don't believe in the Jewish tradition, you don't have to say Happy (c)Hanukkah. If you don't want to say it, you don't have to.
But, if you do want to, you can. Eleven years later, there is more pushback towards the animosity and tension between Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Maybe in another eleven years, we can drop the whole argument and work on appreciating the diverse stories that unite us.
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