Christmas, Hanukkah signs should get equal treatment

The Island Now

I would like to respond to the “Our Views” editorial printed on Friday, Dec. 30, 2011, entitled “Lack of problems plagues county.”

First, the title seems to have little or nothing to do with the article, the point of the article being mainly “political correctness” regarding the current holiday season.

The county is, in fact, plagued by many problems, but how one wishes another happiness or conveys this type of message has nothing to do with the county – it is more of a personal issue that many have chosen to blow way out of proportion, and it is now pervasive in government, business and the educational system.

This country was founded on the principles of freedom of speech and religion, and there are those who would trample on those rights to suit their own purpose or beliefs. You make reference to a sign displayed by CVS, which said “Season’s Greetings, Happy Holidays and Happy Hanukkah.”

To be politically correct, the sign should have been limited to everything except Hanukkah, but the inclusion of that holiday now created a situation where other holidays were not named, and therefore were excluded, giving the appearance of a slanted greeting. I am perfectly happy with Season’s Greetings and/or Happy Holidays.

To take this a step further, I am happy to acknowledge the pleasure that I derive from receiving a pleasant holiday-specific greeting. I’m equally happy whether someone wishes me Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, or even Happy Kwanzaa regardless of which holiday I celebrate or choose not to celebrate.

The message conveyed is the same in each case, and should be taken in the spirit of the offering – no more, no less. I wholeheartedly agree that arguments over what the banners say is petty – let’s not diminish the genuine intent of the message.

Finally, although your last paragraph seems to be unrelated to the bulk of the article, I agree we need to give special thanks to our returning troops, and do all we can to help them and the families of those who did not return.

Forget the politically correct thing – let’s all say a prayer of thanks and extend a helping hand to those in need, both in this season and throughout the year.

Eric Spinner

New Hyde Park

 

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