The word Merry/Happy Christmas is not a bad word.

Many of us work in retail it is a sad day when one is told that one cannot say "Merry Christmas" as it may offend shoppers. Yet those stores carry Christmas items with the words saying "Merry Christmas" on them. The world we live in means that many of us are from all parts of the world so although England does not celebrate July 4th nor do we Thanksgiving I am not taken offense when people wish me a "Happy July 4th" or a "Happy Thanksgiving". Just because the word "Christmas" has now been replaced by many signs saying "Happy Holidays" it should not mean those who wish to say "Merry Christmas" are told that they should not say it. May I remind the retailers that "Christmas" you have marketed into the biggest money making season, so it is alright to take peoples money but not to wish them a "Merry or Happy Christmas" surely that is taking advantage of as the retailers say a "Christian Holiday". Freedom of speech should not be just for a few, the word "Christmas" should be a light to a hurting world and should bring joy to all around. Would it be better to curse at customers no that would be offensive. Yet there are many other holidays for other religions I do not see retailers at least in England and the USA making money of such holidays as Hanukkah. If I was to say "Happy Hanukkah" that too might offend people. So as a Christian why are so many retailers are allowed to make their employees feel small for wishing customers a "Happy, Merry Christmas" Surely if this is the case then these very stores need to stop being hypocrites by selling Christmas items and making money out of a Christian holiday. Christmas is a time of joy and it is a time to allow happiness to spread, a smile a spirit of good cheer and time to reflect a time to remember Jesus Christ. Christmas is not a Happy holiday to many of us who still say "Merry Christmas" it is a saving grace. Be blessed this Christmas.