I agree, Mike—either works for me. One of my first jobs was being a waitress, and I would always change up whether I said "Merry Christmas" or "Have a good holiday" to customers. People challenged both statements. Most were actually more bothered if I said "have a good holiday," which I thought was kind of interesting. But you're right—would probably be better if we all donated a little bit, regardless of the holiday.

And may the Blessings of the Winter Solstice extend to you and yours.

Interesting you should mention the birthday aspect. The bakery/diner where I worked as the aforementioned waitress always got about half a dozen orders around Christmastime for cakes decorated in red and green that read "Happy Birthday, Jesus"—no joke. I suppose when it comes to celebrating this holiday, you just have to celebrate what you know and love, and uphold your family's traditions.

I hadn't heard that, but it's believable. Did you see an article about it somewhere? If so, feel free to share the link, I'm interested to read.

Yep! It's the holiday season, filled with multiple holidays for people of all faiths.
A tolerance and acceptance of all faiths is the bedrock upon which our country is founded.

Yet so much intolerance exists, it's a shame. There's so many people who just can't seem to enjoy this time of year without knowing that everyone thinks just like them and believes in the exact same things as they do. They actually get offended when you don't use the words that they think should be used on whatever holiday it is they want you to celebrate.

The only true and proven holiday at this time of year is the Winter Solstice, which has been celebrated long before the Christians decided to celebrate the birth of Jesus on a made up date. So, I would prefer Happy Solstice and will get all huffy and indignant (in the spirit of Christmas) if you don't.

Honestly, I'm not experiencing this intolerance.
I think some folks go looking for trouble. I don't have the time or energy to do that.

Live and let live.

Mike - you (smartly) must not watch Fox, where the war on Christmas is covered more than the war on terror these days. I guess I run into more Fox apostles on a regular basis than you do.

I truly don't get excited by what anyone wishes me these days. It's a great time of year, and if I know someone celebrates Christmas, I'll wish them a merry one, if they celebrate Hannukkah I'll aknowlege that. If they have have a glazed look in there eyes like the season has gotten to them, I'll invite them to have a beer with me.

Have a good one, whatever it is.