For the past decade or so, the topic of Christmas vs. Holiday has turned our winter season into summer with its fiery controversy. Words and phrases that carry so much meaning can cause and have caused problems and division that divide an entire season of happiness, peace, and hope.

Do I see why people get upset or offended one way or the other? Yes, I do. I have to see it.

Let me start off by stating this: I am unapologetic and fervent believer in Christ. The reason the Christmas Season means so much to me, first of all, deals with my (and our) Savior's birth and appearance into the world. That's it. That's why I love this time of year so much. Not just because of family and gifts and trees, but because of the "Reason for the Season."

Because I am passionate about my beliefs (they literally define who I am), I will never stop saying Merry Christmas. I can't. And, I don't think I should stop for anyone else. I have the right to celebrate what I want, especially in the United States.

As an aside... yes I am aware of the "history" of the Christmas holiday besides the Christian aspects of it. I know of it's pagan roots and having to do with the Winter Solstice in Europe, etc. I also know about the roots of the non-religious parts of the Easter holiday as well. Many holidays we celebrate today are very different than where they began, but Christmas is special for two reasons: Even though we got some of the decorations and celebrations from pagan and non-Christian roots (The winter greens, Santa Claus, etc.), the holiday would never have been as popular as it is today without a baby in a manger two thousand years ago. Therefore, I am safe to say that the main reason for the Holiday is still in tact. Second, the secular (or pagan) parts of Christmas are not leading anyone astray and back to pagan roots. Okay, maybe I can't say anyone, but I'm sure the number is very minuscule.

On the flip side of this defensive, pro-Christian stance, just because I believe a certain way does not mean everyone else should or has to (that sounds very Spanish Inquisition to me). Especially in America, where tolerance of all kind (except for violence, etc.) should be allowed if possible. If someone doesn't celebrate Christmas, but does recognize this time of the year as the Holiday season, then why can't I wish them happiness too? Why can't I say "Happy Holidays" to try and include their holiday as well? No need to be a jerk because they aren't the same as me. And I'm sure as heck not winning any of them to my belief system with my jerkiness.

It's not hard to say both. In fact, they go together pretty well. So this Christmas/Holiday Season, please just try and keep the Peace on Earth and Goodwill toward Men.