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Christmas in America

Posted December 23rd, 2016 at 1:50 pm (UTC-4)
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Whether you greet people by saying “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays,” Americans will observe Christmas in some way or another on Sunday.

The multi-ethnic, multi-religious nature of the United States raised the consciousness of some to try to be more inclusive with their greetings. But the supposedly politically-correct “Happy Holidays” offends some who believe it diminishes Christmas, and those who choose to use it in their well-wishes.

Add to that legal prohibitions on publicly sponsored religious displays and events, and you have ammunition for some to wage a culture war.

Hopefully, the sentiment of peace and joy that Christmas conveys will prevail.

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Sharing Christmas with the Kurds

Posted December 24th, 2015 at 10:59 am (UTC-4)
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“When I was a child the Muslims and Christians celebrated each other’s holidays. My mother put up a tree for me and my Christian friends. Most of my teachers were Christians, so were many of my classmates. We didn’t know the difference. …”

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My Very Muslim Christmas

Posted December 24th, 2015 at 10:54 am (UTC-4)
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Although I am Muslim, I have a deep affection and respect for Christmas. Affection because I was raised Catholic and the holiday season is a nostalgic hug as comforting as a warm crackling fire and hot apple cider. Respect because praising the significance of the birth of Jesus is an important part of the Muslim […]

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Christmas USA

Posted December 24th, 2015 at 10:46 am (UTC-4)
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It seems a bit incongruous that a country where freedom of religion is among its bedrock foundations celebrates one of Christianity’s holiest of days as a national holiday. But as a cultural, racial and religious melting pot, the United States is a country of contradictions and compromises, and culture clashes over Christmas roil that pot a bit. Despite the separation of church and state, American religion and politics often work hand-in-hand. Even amid accusations of a war on Christmas, most Americans are generally swept up by the spirit of the holiday.

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