Happy Holidays

I see friends shaking hands
Saying, "How do you do?"
They're really saying
"I love you"

I've always liked these lyrics from Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World." Sometimes we convey messages indirectly by using a phrase or greeting that feels safer or more familiar.

It disheartens me greatly to note how the topic of greetings during this time of year has almost become weaponized for some. When greeting someone with "Merry Christmas" -- or not -- ends up raising tension, it's sad.

I hope that no matter what you believe or how you choose to express it, when you say "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Hannukkah" or "Happy Kwanzaa" or "Happy Holidays" or "Season's Greetings" or any other greetings I may be missing, what you're really saying is "I wish you peace, happiness, kindness, and understanding."

It doesn't matter so much how you say it...it matters so much more that you feel it.

Happy Holidays everyone.

Zadie

You showed me simple joy by taking walks, playing with toys, getting belly rubs, or playing ball and tug of war. But what you really showed me is that there is no greater joy than simply being around those you love.

Rest in peace Zadie.