What do we say to "Merry Christmas"

[Anonymous]

I am an atheist who was raised Jewish but went to Episcopalian high school. I used to be very cranky about "Merry Christmas," as well as the music in stores, the decorations, all of it.

Over the years I grew to like Christmas a little bit more. The decorations brighten up bleak northeastern streets, and people seem excited about it.

This year the economic downturn has hit so many people so hard. I am fortunate to be safe in my job and my home, but many cannot say the same. When Christmas season came along, I felt that it was a welcome relief from the hopelessness that accompanied much of the year. People had something to look forward to, and be happy about. Saying "Merry Christmas" acknowledges a bright spot in another person's life, and perhaps the only constant in these difficult times. Now, when I hear "merry Christmas" from a shop clerk or any other stranger, I realize that they are wishing me well, and even trying to share a piece of what they treasure and value. And when I say "merry Christmas," I am giving them something that costs me nothing and makes them happy.

Now, I enjoy saying Merry Christmas, and enjoy hearing it too.

I like "have a blessed day" now as well. I might not believe in blessings, but I believe that the sentiment is a generous one.