It must be that time of year. The weekend after Thanksgiving, the Christmas music started. We have had our sales. And Seattle has had its first dusting of snow. It is time to think about how we greet others.

I came across this picture on a friend’s page and immediately reacted to it. That simply is not my style. That is not how I prefer to respond during December.

I have been a Christian all my life. I did not do homework on Sundays, I do not work on Sundays, and I will not work on Easter or Christmas. I am pretty hard and fast on making my life fit my beliefs.

When I wish people well in the last few weeks of this month, I tell them, “Merry Christmas.”

I liken it to other aspects of my life. I do not think that mine is the only country in the world worth living it, but I prefer it. Thus, I reside in the U.S.

I accept that there are hundreds of languages in the world. However, I speak English. So I talk in the English language. (Or, “American,” as the folks across the pond might suggest. Those with their “lifts” and “torches.” Oh, and “colours.” Let us not forget their “colours.”)

If folks are open to hugging, I greet them with a hug. If they like their personal space, that is entirely fine. But I have a way that I prefer to do things.

(And I think handshakes are weird. Do you know where their hands have been? Why are you trying to squish my fingers? Why are your hands so sweaty?)

If you do not like hugs, then I keep my distance. And if you do not like saying, “Merry Christmas,” then I take no offense.

That is it. I have my thoughts on things. I have my approaches to life. And I have no problem saying phrases that reflect that. Hence, “Merry Christmas.”

Nor do I take issue with others saying different phrases. “Happy Hanukkah.” Sure. “Happy Christmas.” Oh, you Brits. But, if you must, then you must. “I hope your December 23rd and 27th meet you agreeably.” Kinda wordy for my tastes. However, I can go with it.

Personal preference. A reflection of how I live my life. That is why I say, “Merry Christmas.” If others’ life prompts them to use different messages, that works too.

Admittedly, Christmas can be a bit “in your face.” Decorations everywhere, products adopt a wintery motif; I understand all that. The red and green and ornate sweaters can be a bit much for my sensibilities too.

However, I do not think that my vocalizing two words are going to send anyone over the edge.

I do not feel the need to express all beliefs with my voice. I am not representing a company, a group, or a public relations firm. Only me. And me says, “Merry Christmas.”