Every year around this time, it seems that the same argument occurs. We see in the news almost every day that someone is offended because another individual took it upon him or herself to change the season of Christmas in order to be politically correct. People no longer say "Merry Christmas" but "Happy Holidays," buy "Holiday Trees" instead of "Christmas Trees," and the lyrics to well-known carols are changed. We see this time after time, and every time, there are people offended with the changes, and I am one of them.

To me, the Christmas season is more than the religious connotation. Although that means a lot to me and is the true meaning behind Christmas, the time spent with family, the joy of giving back, and the love spread around also plays into the Christmas season. Families have traditions that they do everywhere, no matter how old everyone gets and how much life changes. From decorating the house, to baking cookies, to wrapping and opening gifts, these traditions have been passed down from generation to generation. I look forward to these everywhere while being able to spend time with my family and friends.

The main reason this argument happens every year around this time is because those who do not celebrate Christmas get offended, but no one ever hears about those who celebrate Christmas getting offended that their traditions and what they believe in is changed. But I am. I take pride in my beliefs, my religion, and my values. If someone does not agree with what I agree with, that is perfectly fine. We all have different opinions and different beliefs. That is what makes everyone individual. However, we must learn how to coexist with one another, and the holiday season is no exception to this.

To my friends who do not celebrate Christmas, I hope that I do not offend you if I say "Merry Christmas" to you. I do not do it out of spite or out of hate, but instead, out of habit. It is what I grew up saying and what I will continue to say. I will not be offended if you say "Happy Hanukkah" to me, or "Happy Kwanzaa." I will not be offended if there is a menorah placed next to the Christmas tree in the center of our town. Your religion and your beliefs are just as important as mine are, but please don't take away my season in order to make yours seem more important.

During this happy time of year, let's spend more time spreading love than spreading hate. There are so many more important issues in the world than being politically correct. We need to stop spending so much time worrying and spend more time living.

I hope that everyone has a joyous holiday season, and to those who celebrate Christmas, Merry Christmas to you.