The beloved holiday season is upon us, bringing with it a heightened sense of service, love, giving, and coziness. In the mix of such delightful spirits and feelings, all of us encounter what seems to be an inescapable bombardment of holiday greetings on signage outside of buildings, emails from your favorite brands, and in every interpersonal engagement. This festive cacophony often sparks conversations about the appropriateness of holiday greetings in our diverse and pluralistic society; the seemingly innocuous phrase "Happy Holidays" has emerged as a compromised attempt at being inclusive and culturally sensitive. However, beneath this linguistic shift lies a broader societal question–one that delves into the intricate relationship between the separation of church and state and the preservation of moral principles that have long guided our societal landscape legally, morally, and culturally. As we navigate this discourse, it becomes clear that the conversation extends beyond mere semantics; it is a reflection of our collective effort to strike a balance between diversity and the foundational values that bind us together.
Principles of religious freedom have deep roots in the history of the Americas; as it was seeking this very liberty that drove the pilgrims onto the Mayflower and towards a new land. This vitality for religious freedom was enshrined in statute with the creation and ratification of the Bill of Rights. At its opening, our first amendment “provides that Congress make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting its free exercise”, emphasizing the profundity of this issue. This rich history sets the stage for contemporary discussions surrounding the separation of church and state, how to uphold religious freedom without abandoning religious presence in culture. In these discussions, the metaphorical notion of a "wall" often surfaces, symbolizing the division between these two influential and necessary entities in our society
As we navigate the complexities of religious freedom and societal harmony, I feel it crucial to reevaluate this metaphor, as prompted by Elder Oaks in his various discourses on the issue. He proposes a more nuanced metaphor—a "curtain" that defines boundaries without hindering the passage of light, love, and mutual support. In a western world shaped by Judeo-Christian values, the idea of complete separation poses challenges to the moral principles guiding our legal systems. Instead of an impenetrable wall, a metaphorical "curtain" could preserve institutional separation while recognizing the shared values underpinning our society.
The ongoing debate surrounding the holiday greeting "Happy Holidays" versus the traditional "Merry Christmas" provides a tangible example of the need for a metaphorical curtain rather than a wall. The shift toward a more inclusive greeting reflects a broader societal attempt to avoid offense and respect the diverse beliefs of individuals. However, the intention behind this change should be examined closely. Is it a genuine effort to foster inclusivity, or does it risk abandoning the moral principles that have long been embedded in our cultural fabric, that are foundational to our ideals as a nation and a people?
"Merry Christmas" encapsulates the essence of the holiday season–a time of love, service, and giving. This greeting represents the best in humankind, transcending religious boundaries. It should be received with the same warmth and appreciation as any other well-wishing. In a diverse society, expressing good wishes according to one's beliefs should not be perceived as offensive. Just as it is an honor to hear someone say, "May Allah bless you," extending a "Merry Christmas" greeting should be met with an understanding of the goodwill and shared values it embodies. As we embrace the richness of our history, acknowledging the deep roots of religious freedom, let us navigate our holiday greetings not only with a commitment to inclusivity, understanding, but with an appreciation for the shared values that make our society strong and prosperous. In doing so, we honor not only the diverse beliefs of individuals but also the moral principles that have shaped our cultural fabric and continue to guide us as a nation and a people.