Americans prefer the traditional “Merry Christmas” greeting to the non-specific “Happy Holidays” by a wide margin, according to a Knights of Columbus-Marist Poll.
Nearly two-thirds of adults nationally – 64% – think people should say, “Merry Christmas,” while less than one-third – 31% – believe the appropriate greeting is “Happy Holidays.” Four percent are unsure.
Patch wants to know which greeting you prefer. Vote in today's poll and feel free to elaborate in the comments section below.
Reasonable people do not object to someone conveying a pleasantry. They do object to being excluded in events including, but not limited to, Chanukah, Kwanza, Solstice, New Year, or whatever other festive event you want to convey greetings. The fact is, not everyone celebrates Christmas, so remaining steadfast that we 'should' all say it excludes friends and neighbors. Why exclude? When you say, "Happy Holiday" you are including all holidays, all events, all religions, and all people. So Happy Holidays to all of my fellow Patch readers!
Happy Holidays, Stratford! Unless you're celebrating Festivus. Then we can start with the Airing of the Grievances.
I include happy, healthy, prosperous in New Year wishes. Personally, if I know people are Christian / Catholic = same. To my Jewish friends & acquaintences, I simply substitute Happy Hanukka. With people who are Oriental, Indian, or I am unsure, I omit mentioning Christmas or Hannukka, staying with the Holidays theme. BOTTOM LINE: I / we are talking nice to others and wishing them well. There is INTENT to be NICE & NO INTENT to be NASTY.
In any case, Merry and Happy whatever you celebrate and Happy New Year.