Kurt comments on politically correct holidays
Kurt Oberreither
-News Editor-
The holiday season can be an awkward dance around denominational lingo and religious stigma. A dance around consumerism is more worth the time and effort this time of year.
When a store clerk decked out in a red stocking cap and bells checks you out, smiles and wishes you a happy holiday, go home, wrap your presents and think about what you have.
For years our country has moved away from pigeon-holing all creeds and shoving the Christian holiday down everyone’s throat. Is it for the better? Only if it is all about gifts.
Insisting that the media and advertisers remove labels is not advancing the American culture.
By no means should one holiday tradition take dominance while another is ignored but if people of all creeds could avoid the materialistic ties, all types of people would be better off.
Think about it. If we spent less time in the checkout lines, there would be less death the day after Thanksgiving and more time to enjoy the company of friends and family to enjoy food and drink.
The “holiday tree” and the “holiday lights” are no more than a facade. Everyone knows what the jolly red guy is all about. There is no way society could supersede these inevitable facts of life and bitching about technicalities will not advance human kind.
Even around STLCC-Meramec, Christmas fodder decorates the Student Center. Let them be meaningless objects if they bother you. Make your own celebration. Take your socks off your feet, put them on your hands and celebrate Handukkah. Tie your arm behind your back and dance around the fire.
Let’s look at the big picture: other people across the world are not worried about what the commercials tell them to think or believe. Some just worry about what they can bring home to their families.
Stop paying any attention to the media portrayal of the time of year that lasts from November (October? September?) through January and enjoy people’s company and good food and drink.
This season, educate yourself, learn a thing or two about another holiday celebration or, if none of these catch your interest, just do your own thing.
