That was some very strong writing. Good decision on the apt. We need all the light we can get in these parts. As for the tree maybe you could get one of those Norfold Island Pines, small tree, that you can keep all winter; the cat might like it.
rdl | Homepage | 12.02.05 - 11:33 pm | #

rdl,
Hadn't thought of that, but you're suggestion is a good one. It's been very wet and grey these past few weeks, and now they're predicting snow. It's been sometime since I've seen so much rain for this time of year. The rivers and lakes are full, and if we get a lot of snow, I'm curious as to what the spring runoff's going to be like. Thank you for your compliment. Appreciate you checking in.
Scot
S. L. Cunningham | Homepage | 12.02.05 - 11:56 pm | #

Hi Scot,
Thank you for saying this:
we now have a generation that says the beliefs and customs our society is based on and lives by is offensive to those who have chosen not to respect our beliefs and customs, all the while insisting we respect theirs.

It's something I've been vaguely thinking, or maybe just feeling and not yet been able to put into words.

This was a thoughtful and quiet piece as is appropriate for the subject. I too have no room for euphemism. Don't say my mother "passed away," say she died. God knows she earned the word.
And that's the key to what you're writing about, isn't it? The power of words? It's almost as if we've cycled round to Lenny Bruce again. If we'd just use the real words they'd have no power to offend.

You can see how well written this piece is. I can't separate your writing from your argument. Bravo. Well done. Much there that needed to be said and that was said exactly as it needed to be.
ME Strauss | Homepage | 12.04.05 - 12:56 pm | #

Liz,
Sometimes you make it hard to say anything in response except, thank you. I appreciate that you take the time to let me know how my work relates directly to your experience and for commenting on my craft. Always grateful,
Scot
S. L. Cunningham | Homepage | 12.04.05 - 4:22 pm | #

I felt the spirit of Christmas for the first time this year while reading your post. The last paragraph, especially, was so powerful and beautiful. Thank you, Scot!
Patry Francis | Homepage | 12.04.05 - 10:45 pm | #

Merry Christmas, Scot!
Gone Away | Homepage | 12.05.05 - 3:38 pm | #

Patry,
You're welcome. I appreciate your thoughtful response and compliment.
Scot
S. L. Cunningham | Homepage | 12.05.05 - 4:05 pm | #

Clive,
And Christmas greetings to you, my friend. Appreciate you coming by. . .
Scot
S. L. Cunningham | Homepage | 12.05.05 - 4:06 pm | #

I think the need to accommadate other people's reaction to how we celebrate our holidays can only go so far. It's just like trying to cook a holiday meal. You're never going to get it exactly how everyone wants it to be.
mojo shivers | Homepage | 12.06.05 - 2:08 am | #

Mojo,
Accommodation? You make a good point. Thanks for coming by,
Scot
S. L. Cunningham | Homepage | 12.06.05 - 4:36 am | #

Here's my question: what if every store started wishing people a "Happy Hannukah?" Would that be an acceptable alternative?

I honestly don't understand the railing against the department stores, I don't. They are trying to be respectful to ALL of their customers--"Holiday" is an INCLUSIVE term, not an exclusive one. They are not trying to diminish Christmas, but they are not making an assumption about what your belief is.

Can we make a deal? I will happily call your Christmas Tree and Christmas Lights for what they are, AND I will thank you for your "Merry Christmas" and wish you one back, if you will just allow the department stores and the government offices to say "Happy Holidays" and not be attacked for it.

I realize that Christians are the majority, but they don't have to be bullies about it...
Chris | Homepage | 12.09.05 - 6:32 pm | #

Sorry to comment twice, but I HAVE to point this out. I'm going to paraphrase you:

"we now have a generation that says the [Christianity] our society is based on and lives by is offensive to those who [are not Christian], all the while insisting we respect [them.]"

I ask, what's wrong with this?! It IS offensive that a free nation imposes Christian values on non-believers. We should ALL be respected, and part of that respect is seeing that no one faith is preferred above the others.

Mind you, I am not directly addressing the Christmas issue here. I think it is entirely fair (in fact, unavoidable) that the majority faith should have a rather overwhelming holiday display. The point I take issue with is to say that people asking to be respected is somehow offensive or an affront to the majority.
Chris | Homepage | 12.09.05 - 6:37 pm | #