It has come to the attention of the media, and myself, that the Starbucks tradition of changing the color of its cups for the holiday season has become more politically correct over the years and this has caused outrage within the Christian community. Some Christians are stating that Starbucks is taking the Christmas spirit out of Christmas.

Seriously?

So in other words, Christians are getting so angry that they are no longer going to support Starbucks because their religion isn’t going to be the focus on a cup. As a Roman Catholic, I find this ridiculous. Why do I care that a cup has gone from festively Christian to plain red? Granted it’s not the most fun thing in the world, but it’s only a cup that holds my coffee.

Starbucks Holiday Cup 2012 and Starbucks Holiday Cup 2015

Starbucks is trying to encompass all people and religions in their company and for that I commend them. There are so many other religious holidays and events that go on during December. Muslims celebrate Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid’ul-Adha during December. Yule and Saturnalia are celebrated by Pagans. The Japanese celebrate Omisoka. Hanukkah is celebrated by those who are Jewish. And Christians celebrate St. Nicholas Day, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (in Mexico), Christmas and the Epiphany. December is one of the holiest months of the year for all religions. December is not solely dedicated to Christmas. So what if someone says “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas?” What does changing a simple celebratory statement do to how you celebrate the month of December? The answer is nothing.

I have been told at work “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Hanukkah” and “Happy Holidays.” It doesn’t affect the way I celebrate my religion during this month and it doesn’t offend me either because I understand that people celebrate all different holidays. In fact, I would rather be told to have a “Happy Hanukkah” than “Happy Holidays” because then I am more able to be happy for that person. I am able to know what they find holy during this month and I can better pray for their happiness. Religion isn’t about saying who is right and wrong in their beliefs but rather what makes that person have a better grasp on their existence in order to make them happy.

So what do I, a Roman Catholic, have to say to Starbucks about their non-Christmas cup? Congratulations! You are doing a good thing trying to include the rest of the world’s people and religious beliefs. We should all aspire to accept one another no matter what race, religion or culture we come from because we are all human beings.