The Editor,
Today in the western world, politicians, businesses and the politically correct are reluctant to use the phrase “Merry Christmas,” instead often using the phrase “Happy Holidays.”
Canada is a nation of immigrants, where different ethnic and religious groups celebrate important days associated with their religion or ethnicity, such as Chinese New Year, Vaisakhi and Diwali. At Chinese New Year, for instance, people greet Mandarin-speaking people with “Fong Xi Fa Cai “ and Cantonese-speaking people with “Gong Hey Fat Choy.” Similarly, we say ”Happy Vaisakhi” or “Happy Diwali.” Politicians have even gone to the extent of wearing clothing associated with these ethnic or religious groups on these days.
So when you are wished “Merry Christmas” this season, do not worry about political correctness. Those of us who celebrate it simply want to extend that celebration and joy to you, as so many other groups do with their holidays.
Whatever your beliefs are, in the proud Canadian tradition of diversity, to all Christians I wish you a “Merry Christmas.”
Vasantha Aruliah,
Port Coquitlam
