Merry Christmas!

The happiest time of the year is taking some hits in 2024.There are conflicts around the world and political turmoil pretty much everywhere. Our values and beliefs are being challenged on a daily basis by individuals who whether misguided or misinformed have taken positions that can turn violent.

The act of wishing someone a Merry Christmas can be viewed as subversive by some and insulting by others when in reality it is a gesture of good will. Is it not possible to accept a gesture with grace and a simple thank you rather than embark on a diatribe on religious beliefs?

I am very fortunate to have a child in my life who views the world with joy and laughter. Difficult questions are answered thoughtfully and with clarity. A friend who is autistic “just has a brain that works differently”, a school friend who is non binary “is neither a boy or girl”, a missing limb on a new friend isn’t odd it’s unique. No judgement, no cynicism, just acceptance.

Would that we could hang onto that attitude as we grow older. Perhaps then wishing someone joy of the season wouldn’t be considered a slur.