In most people’s mind, the holiday season includes winter coats, snow, hot cocoa – celebrating. You might not even turn your head at the slightest when you’re wished to have a merry Christmas. 

But for some people, the season offers festivities other than Christmas.

The planet is no doubtedly diverse in religion and culture. In the United States, people celebrate various winter holidays including Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Christmas, New Year’s and even more. There are some people who have their own adaptations of holidays as well as those who don’t celebrate.

While a wishing of ‘Merry Christmas’ is well-meant, more could be done to respect and include the differences between each other during the season. If you’re aware of the holidays that somebody celebrates, then it is okay to greet them appropriately. If not, instead, try offering a ‘season’s greetings’ or a ‘happy holidays.’

By avoiding ‘Merry Christmas,’ the holiday isn’t being insulted or denigrated. Using a neutral phrase is not only respectful and inclusive to other people’s religious beliefs, but it is broadened to include New Year’s festivities as well. 

Recognizing and embracing our different beliefs can help bring together a more diverse circle of people this holiday season. Using an inclusive term can be a simple way of doing your part to make sure everyone’s holidays are happy.