Merry Christmas. Happy Hanukkah. Seasons Greetings. Joyous Kwanzaa. Happy Holidays.

Let's get real: they are all acceptable holiday greetings. But I should not have to wish others "Happy Holidays" in fear of being politically correct. If you are offended by me and the multitude of companies who use the phrase "Merry Christmas," then you have much bigger problems, my friend.

Personally, I am Catholic and I celebrate Christmas, so you will probably hear me wish everyone I meet a "Merry Christmas!" No, I will not be offended if you wish me a "Happy Hanukkah" or "Happy Holidays," or whatever other holiday greeting floats your boat. What I will be grateful for is the fact that you took the time to acknowledge me at all. The holiday season, regardless of how you celebrate it, is special to everyone in their own way. We, as the people growing up in this generation, have become much too sensitive to what is happening around us. We feel entitled to more things than most people could ever dream of having, including something as menial and stupid as the correct holiday greeting.

While some of us get upset if our Starbucks nonfat, triple shot, no whip, extra hot mocha is not heated to exactly 200° in a perfectly, politically correct, plain red cup, some people will be taken aback by large corporations using a particular greeting. I have also been told to not say "Merry Christmas" in certain workplace settings, but rather use "Happy Holidays," as that is much more proper, and less likely to offend. It is certainly not my fault that Christmas is a more widely celebrated holiday where we live, and I should not have to change the way I wish people good will.

However, I would like to point out that not only should people who celebrate Christmas not have to alter their greetings, but those who celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Las Posadas, Eid-al-Adha, and other winter holidays should feel free to use whatever greeting they are most comfortable with. There should not be fear of scrutiny of their religion or culture's holiday. If someone wishes you a "Joyous Kwanzaa" this season, wishing them a "Merry Christmas" right back should not be something we look down upon. Multiple cultures, traditions, religions and the like should be celebrated! Even those who choose to celebrate nothing this season should strive to thank and appreciate anyone who wishes them well.

A friendly greeting around this joyous time should not be scrutinized the way it is. In current affairs as they are, isn't a polite, sincere greeting one of the things we should be celebrating?!

This season, I will be celebrating Christmas. Some of my dear friends will be celebrating Hannukah. Some of you out there may celebrate nothing. Regardless of how you spend this winter, I urge you to acknowledge everyone you meet this season with the greeting of your choice and a warm smile. If you are happy, spread that around! And please, above all, do not be offended when I choose to wish you a "Merry Christmas" as opposed to a "Happy Holidays."

So, to all you lovely people out there: Merry Christmas.