NationStates Jolt Archive

And the fundies come out swinging! Sort of. I got an email from the group, AFA, today. The text reads as follows:

Encourage family, friends and members of your church to make an unspoken witness that Christmas is the birthday of Christ

Take a stand for Merry Christmas, not Happy Holidays

At a time when many want to replace Merry Christmas with Happy Holidays, use AFA's attractive car magnets and lapel buttons to remind others that Christmas is the birthday of Christ.

Here is your way to make a silent reminder.

These attractive magnets and buttons feature Mary and the baby Jesus with the phrase "Merry Christmas, It's Worth Saying". They are a non-offensive way to remind those you come into contact with that there is a Reason for the season.

Order enough to give one to family, friends, and every member in your church. Display the magnet and wear your button with pride.

Order today to receive your order by Thanksgiving, giving you plenty of time to join thousands of others in making the silent witness.

P.S. Please forward this e-mail message to your family and friends!

Here (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_magnet.gif) is a picture of the magnet, and the pin (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_pin.jpg)

And I thought Walmart was bad with starting Christmas early ;)

While the emphasis is pointless, I think saying "Merry Christmas" isn't so bad.

And the fundies come out swinging! Sort of. I got an email from the group, AFA, today. The text reads as follows:


Here (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_magnet.gif) is a picture of the magnet, and the pin (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_pin.jpg)

And I thought Walmart was bad with starting Christmas early ;)

the 'christmas message', spoiling xmas for everyone since 19blahdee-blah

Ahhh ... I really hate having to see this shit every year. Just about every holiday has tons of people moaning about it whenever it comes around, but Christmas is the worst.

me, i prefer a good solid "fuck you". i want greeters in stores to say "fuck you" to everyone that goes in during ye olde holiday season.

I make it a point to say "Merry Christmas" to every Indian we have in the office every year. I think it's only fair, since I get to go to their (tasty!) Divali celebration, but we only have a "Holiday" party.

me, i prefer a good solid "fuck you". i want greeters in stores to say "fuck you" to everyone that goes in during ye olde holiday season.

i reckon that'd get more annoying than people saying 'remember jesus' or whatever. at least you can zone out from the evangelism, 'fuck you' is more penetrating.

you should get off the afa email list they are a hateful and evil group, I wish that more people could see that.

oh, and you guys can do whatever you want to that holiday (or non-holiday) I don't care.

You notice how they made a big emphasis on the whole ordering and buyin of these things. One would think that if the whole "Merry Christmas" was soo important to them, that they'd give em out for free.. Kind of shows their true intentions?

You notice how they made a big emphasis on the whole ordering and buyin of these things. One would think that if the whole "Merry Christmas" was soo important to them, that they'd give em out for free.. Kind of shows their true intentions?

Hehe. A little off topic, but that reminds me of something ...

http://www.gatago.com/alt/slack/27455747.html

Dunno if anyone's posted it before, but it's worth a laugh.

you should get off the afa email list they are a hateful and evil group, I wish that more people could see that.

oh, and you guys can do whatever you want to that holiday (or non-holiday) I don't care.

I'm on there to try and see what the far right Christians are exposed too. I figure if we can counter the message, then we can stop the ignorance so often broadcasted.

Oh No! I missed Halloween?
*takes "The Raven" tape out of VCR and pops in "Bad Santa"*
Guess I missed Thanksgiving too! http://www.postsmile.com/img/emotions/231.gif

You notice how they made a big emphasis on the whole ordering and buyin of these things. One would think that if the whole "Merry Christmas" was soo important to them, that they'd give em out for free.. Kind of shows their true intentions?

heh! i wonder how many of these AFAs bemoan the commercialisation of religious holidays.

Oh No! I missed Halloween?
*takes "The Raven" tape out of VCR and pops in "Bad Santa"*
Guess I missed Thanksgiving too! http://www.postsmile.com/img/emotions/231.gif

it's tomorrow, don't panic!

Hehe. A little off topic, but that reminds me of something ...

http://www.gatago.com/alt/slack/27455747.html

Dunno if anyone's posted it before, but it's worth a laugh.

FREEE STUFF!!!:fluffle: :fluffle: :fluffle:

My weakness! AHHH :p

Hooray for acting like Christianity is the only religion in the country! :rolleyes:

we say "merry christmas" (and not 'happy holidays') in this country, even though 90% of the population probably couldn't give a shit about jesus. *shrugs*

I am the Reason for the Season.

Don't believe me?

Then check this (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h278/NazcaVisitor/jesus1.jpg) out.

I'm on there to try and see what the far right Christians are exposed too. I figure if we can counter the message, then we can stop the ignorance so often broadcasted.

I get forwarded worse. I get an AFA warning about once a day, they disgust me.

Meh, I just find it rather funny how most Christians believe that Yahushua was born in December, whereas in truth he was likely born in the fall or spring. Not to mention, most don't even consider the fact that almost everything they do during the Christmas season is directly related to pagan holidays and traditions during the time.

So, really, Christians are the ones waging the war on Christmas-they celebrate at the wrong time, using pagan traditions to celebrate. AMeh.

we say "merry christmas" (and not 'happy holidays') in this country, even though 90% of the population probably couldn't give a shit about jesus. *shrugs*

And nearly 100% probably believe his name was Jesus. So, meh once more. Silly, uninformed people.

And nearly 100% probably believe his name was Jesus. So, meh once more. Silly, uninformed people.

jesus was one of his middle names. his friends just called him phil. but who really cares about the name of some dead guy. it's not going to change anything.

jesus was one of his middle names. his friends just called him phil. but who really cares about the name of some dead guy. it's not going to change anything.

Yep, and most of his abilities were exagerated a bit.

And just for the record, the word Jesus was a mistranslation from Hebrew to Latin.

But meh. Of course the Bible doesn't mistranslate anything, ever.

I get forwarded worse. I get an AFA warning about once a day, they disgust me.

WORSE??? :eek:



and Ginny, The free thing isn't working! :(

WORSE??? :eek:


unfortunately a lot of fundies have my email address, they think I am a heathen.

unfortunately a lot of fundies have my email address, they think I am a heathen.

*burns smunky at the stake*

Wait... uh... I didn't give anyone your email...

How did they get it, anywho?

*burns smunky at the stake*

Wait... uh... I didn't give anyone your email...

How did they get it, anywho?

groups that I associate with often have far right fundies in them. ;)

I am the "liberal" one.

WORSE??? :eek:



and Ginny, The free thing isn't working! :(

Ah well ... maybe they finally decided it wasn't worth giving out all that stuff for free. A hard lesson about the cruel outside world has been learned.

Sorry Zilam. Check out my new sexy picture, it'll make you feel better ;)

This is one of those issues which I will never understand. If someone wishes me a merry Christmas, I say, "Thanks - you too!" If someone wishes me a happy Chanukkah, I say, "Thanks - you too!" If someone wishes me a totally awesome December 28th, I say, "Thanks - you too!" It seems to me that it's nice to wish that other people will be happy. Why anyone, no matter how religious, would find someone also wanting them to be happy on days besides their holiday of choice offensive baffles me to no end...

I'm on there to try and see what the far right Christians are exposed too. I figure if we can counter the message, then we can stop the ignorance so often broadcasted.

As much as I'd like to destroy the fog of lies some bad christians send out I kinda wonder why we're generalizing the whole group. I mean just because some are bent on using propaghanda to brainwash us doesn't mean all are like that. :(

As much as I'd like to destroy the fog of lies some bad christians send out I kinda wonder why we're generalizing the whole group. I mean just because some are bent on using propaghanda to brainwash us doesn't mean all are like that. :(

hah! if fundy propaganda is meant to brainwash us they need lessons in propaganda. i'd say it was was of the main things putting people off fundamental religions, way too deterministic and forceful for most people to take i think.

And the fundies come out swinging! Sort of. I got an email from the group, AFA, today. The text reads as follows:


Here (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_magnet.gif) is a picture of the magnet, and the pin (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_pin.jpg)

And I thought Walmart was bad with starting Christmas early ;)

Ya know, I kinda thought the whole point to Happy Holidays was that Christmas isn't the only holiday celebrated in December. I know it's not the one I celebrate. I celebrate Newtonmas. :D

hah! if fundy propaganda is meant to brainwash us they need lessons in propaganda. i'd say it was was of the main things putting people off fundamental religions, way too deterministic and forceful for most people to take i think.

I used to go to Baptist school and I remember finding tons of subliminal messages. The eagle mascot for their sports teams had it too. And everyone kept staring me in the eyes like a zombie telling me to get saved and such, but their hypocrisy threw me off so I remain non baptist *waves a flag with the word "yay" on it*:p

I used to go to Baptist school and I remember finding tons of subliminal messages. The eagle mascot for their sports teams had it too. And everyone kept staring me in the eyes like a zombie telling me to get saved and such, but their hypocrisy threw me off so I remain non baptist *waves a flag with the word "yay" on it*:p

you shouldn't let other people's actions dictate your beliefs, doing that is just as bad as being brainwashed.

:( well its kinda hard over there. Strong minded-ness is frowned upon and the proaganda is pervasive, staying non baptist was pretty good, an average kid would have been a zombie in just a matter of days. :confused: *waves flag again*
But now I'm away from there the healing has begun and people's actions do not dictate my life :)

:( well its kinda hard over there. Strong minded-ness is frowned upon and the proaganda is pervasive, staying non baptist was pretty good, an average kid would have been a zombie in just a matter of days. :confused: *waves flag again*

you can reject propaganda and still think for yourself.

"I don't believe this because someone I know is an idiot" is not a logical place to start from. ;)

Joe the Christian: "Merry Christmas, Bob!"
Bob the Athiest: "OH NO YOU DI-INT!!!!!111" *gets out the chainsaw and hammers, begins chasing Joe around the X-mas tree*

:rolleyes:

Joe the Christian: "Merry Christmas, Bob!"
Bob the Athiest: "OH NO YOU DI-INT!!!!!111" *gets out the chainsaw and hammers, begins chasing Joe around the X-mas tree*

:rolleyes:

That or

Store that has said "Happy Hollidays" the last 15 years: "Happy Hollidays"
Uptight white christian middle class dude: "OMFG BOYCOTT they STOLE CHRISTMASS heathins!"

Joe the Christian: "Merry Christmas, Bob!"
Bob the Athiest: "OH NO YOU DI-INT!!!!!111" *gets out the chainsaw and hammers, begins chasing Joe around the X-mas tree*

:rolleyes:

LOL!

The Swedish word for "Christmas" is "jul." Yup, "jul," stolen directly from the Old Norse "yule," i.e. the pagan midwinter festival.

Merriam-Webster.com tells me English has the word as well -"yule." And it means the same thing as it does in Swedish, and it is just as pagan. So, umm, ditch the stupid "Christmas" and call it yule, finally acknowledging who the Christians stole the holiday from (that's why it's so hilarious to see all these US Christians bitching about Christ not being present in their thieved pagan holiday) and that'll be that. Works for us.

The Swedish word for "Christmas" is "jul." Yup, "jul," stolen directly from the Old Norse "yule," i.e. the pagan midwinter festival.

Merriam-Webster.com tells me English has the word as well -"yule." And it means the same thing as it does in Swedish, and it is just as pagan. So, umm, ditch the stupid "Christmas" and call it yule, finally acknowledging who the Christians stole the holiday from (that's why it's so hilarious to see all these US Christians bitching about Christ not being present in their thieved pagan holiday) and that'll be that. Works for us.

Yup, and during yuletime the pagan Germanic tribes would walk into the forest and cut down the mightiest conifer(Not with a herring you morons) and bring it back to the hall or other meeting place. We perpetuate that custom with christmas trees, if you think about it, hardly anything in modern christmas is mentioned in the bible at all

Yup, and during yuletime the pagan Germanic tribes would walk into the forest and cut down the mightiest conifer(Not with a herring you morons) and bring it back to the hall or other meeting place. We perpetuate that custom with christmas trees, if you think about it, hardly anything in modern christmas is mentioned in the bible at all

Christmas itself is not mentioned, either. It really was just a shameless misappropriation of a pagan holiday by Christians to make Christianity more attractive to pagan converters/forcibly converted, as they wouldn't have to give up their traditions. Just like Easter.

The Swedish word for "Christmas" is "jul." Yup, "jul," stolen directly from the Old Norse "yule," i.e. the pagan midwinter festival.

Merriam-Webster.com tells me English has the word as well -"yule." And it means the same thing as it does in Swedish, and it is just as pagan. So, umm, ditch the stupid "Christmas" and call it yule, finally acknowledging who the Christians stole the holiday from (that's why it's so hilarious to see all these US Christians bitching about Christ not being present in their thieved pagan holiday) and that'll be that. Works for us.

Throw in the tree, the lights, the yule log, the feast, and you have the fixin's for a good ol' pagan time. Oh, and the multiple versions of God don't hurt.

Yule be sorry if you don't eat my special fruitcake! :p

And the fundies come out swinging! Sort of. I got an email from the group, AFA, today. The text reads as follows:


Here (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_magnet.gif) is a picture of the magnet, and the pin (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_pin.jpg)

And I thought Walmart was bad with starting Christmas early ;)

Yes, order enough to make them scads and scads of money.

I'm an atheist, and someone saying "Merry Christmas" doesn't bother me at all. As long as it's not the government promoting a religion, the private citizen, even while at work, should be able to say it. I also tolerate people who say they'll pray for me, as long as it's not praying for me on the assumption that I'll go to hell without their help.

I'm an atheist, and someone saying "Merry Christmas" doesn't bother me at all. As long as it's not the government promoting a religion, the private citizen, even while at work, should be able to say it. I also tolerate people who say they'll pray for me, as long as it's not praying for me on the assumption that I'll go to hell without their help.

Heh, if I see someone is in trouble (ill, what have you) and I'm not sure how they'll take it, I always ask, "I hope you won't mind if I keep you in my prayers."

I've never had someone tell me, "No, don't!" but that's not to say it will never happen. ;)

Bah... These people seriously ruin my holiday season. I couldn't give a fuck less about Jesus or any of the other figures that get dragged out in the open during this season: I care about the way people act. I like the pretty music, the happy people, and the bright colors. I like presents, and family breakfast.

Who gives a damn why anyone does it? I don't give a damn at all. They can have their Christmas, and I can have my holidays. I just wish to hell they'd let me have mine in peace.

What the hell ever happened to the "Merry" part of Merry Christmas for these people. Now it's more like "I hope you have a stick wedged particularly far up your ass this Christmas."

Christmas has no religious signficance anymore. When the Christmas marketing season begins before Halloween, then I think that we don't have to worry about the ACLU "attackign Christmas". I think that Corporate America has done a good enough job itself.

Christmas has no religious signficance anymore. When the Christmas marketing season begins before Halloween, then I think that we don't have to worry about the ACLU "attackign Christmas". I think that Corporate America has done a good enough job itself.

Hell when did it actually have any real religious significance at least in terms of Christianity? They stole what WAS religiously significant and just added non significant ceremony to the holiday

None of that extra stuff they added has any actual RELIGIOUS significance. (Otherwise it would actually have religious backing for the ceremony)

Already? Dammit, war on Christmas starts earlier every year. We just barely finished war on Ramadan!

When people start complaining about not saying Merry Christmas, I want to say Happy Holidays just to spite them. That's what they get.

Already? Dammit, war on Christmas starts earlier every year. We just barely finished war on Ramadan!
wait...we're done with that already? Dammit, I missed it again!

Guys! Don't get ahead of yourselves! We still have to make war upon Halloween tommorrow! Keep your priorities straight. Poisoned apples and those mean spider pranks tommorrow night, then we can assault Santas and wish people "Happy Holidays".

Christ.

I mean...

Er...

Non-Denominational Holiday Figure!

Joe the Christian: "Merry Christmas, Bob!"
Bob the Athiest: "OH NO YOU DI-INT!!!!!111" *gets out the chainsaw and hammers, begins chasing Joe around the X-mas tree* WOUAHAHAHAH!! priceless.

anyways..


Merry Christmas to all the Bobs everywhere.

:D

I'm an atheist, and someone saying "Merry Christmas" doesn't bother me at all. As long as it's not the government promoting a religion, the private citizen, even while at work, should be able to say it. I also tolerate people who say they'll pray for me, as long as it's not praying for me on the assumption that I'll go to hell without their help.

Well, and that's the thing...we're not the ones making a fuss. It is what it is. No sane atheist expects that no one will celebrate Christmas near them, it's gonna happen. If atheists spasmed every time they encountered Christmas mid-October through mid-January would be a non-stop epileptic fit.

But they, the fundies and such, frame it in such a way as to insist that we have a problem with it. For fucks sake, even if you're Christian, New Years Day is a week after Christmas-two holidays, plural. Easily covered with "Happy Holidays." Two words, I've covered two days. It does have the added benefit of wishing anyone else who has a holiday going on at the time a good day as well, Oh no!

And to insist that stores are marginalizing Christmas by saying "Happy Holidays," give me a fucking break. The entire make up of retail is propped up by fucking Christmas. The product catalogs for Christmas show up in June, the stores revolve around Christmas. They're no more going to ignore Christmas than they are going to let people start paying on the 'honor system.'

In short, it's a made up fucking war that insults our intelligence. Except that people fall for it.

me, i prefer a good solid "fuck you". i want greeters in stores to say "fuck you" to everyone that goes in during ye olde holiday season.
See, now, on THIS, I agree with you 100%. Excellent idea.

"Fuck you. Fuck you, everyone." :D

wait...we're done with that already? Dammit, I missed it again!

Sorry to hear that, but at least you're here now.

Okay, people! Listen up good! I know it's been a tough campaign what with the war on Ramadan, the assault on Diwali, the uprising against Yom Kippur, and the ongoing mocking of Kwanzaa; but now it's time to get ready to fight the war on Christmas, which is getting reinforcements from Thanksgiving this year.

We still have time to prepare and execute a good plan, find a way to neutralize Santa's airpower, circle the Immaculate Conception and outflank baby Jesus. Remember to reinforce positions and be ready for the counterattack on Epiphany.

I want to hear some ideas, and they better be good!

Sorry to hear that, but at least you're here now.

Okay, people! Listen up good! I know it's been a tough campaign what with the war on Ramadan, the assault on Diwali, the uprising against Yom Kippur, and the ongoing mocking of Kwanzaa; but now it's time to get ready to fight the war on Christmas, which is getting reinforcements from Thanksgiving this year.

We still have time to prepare and execute a good plan, find a way to neutralize Santa's airpower, circle the Immaculate Conception and outflank baby Jesus. Remember to reinforce positions and be ready for the counterattack on Epiphany.

I want to hear some ideas, and they better be good!

Excuse me, sir, you've forgotten Halloween. Again!

C'mon! It's tommorrow night! We have no time, practically.

Happy Consumerism everyone!

Excuse me, sir, you've forgotten Halloween. Again!

C'mon! It's tommorrow night! We have no time, practically.

AND he forgot Poland!


...what?

AND he forgot Poland!


...what?

No worse offense! :eek:

Anybody remember Sissymas? If only the public would embrace Sissy Spacek during the holidays...

See, now, on THIS, I agree with you 100%. Excellent idea.

"Fuck you. Fuck you, everyone." :D
And God fuck us, everyone.

... Now I have the horrible idea of downloading Dicken's A Christmas Carol and using word to do a find and replace... :p

In Sweden, we say "God Jul!" Our word for Christmas, 'Jul', is pronounced similarly as English 'Yule', so I (as a Pagan) rather like the expression.

The whole "War on Christmas" thing in the US is really rather bizarre.

You really want to fight these guys, remind them that Christmas, December 25, was originally the Pagean Saturnalia, and was only associated with Christ because Emperor Constantine was too unoriginal to create a single holiday for his new savior. I exagerate of course.

Any theologist worth his salt will tell you this, and to banish any doubts of my motivations, I'm a Catholic...so nyah!

Happy Consumerism everyone!

Yep, I celebrate christmas the same as everyone else in this country - a major retail event.

Pah. the fundies never get it the whole happy holidays thing is because not everyone is a christian, and are other holidays at this time. but i just say merry new year.



stupid fundies and their war on christmas. what holiday is there goihng to be a war on next?

When people start complaining about not saying Merry Christmas, I want to say Happy Holidays just to spite them. That's what they get.

no. "merry new year" will piss them off more.

Pah. the fundies never get it the whole happy holidays thing is because not everyone is a christian, and are other holidays at this time. but i just say merry new year.



stupid fundies and their war on christmas. what holiday is there goihng to be a war on next?

The "fundies" as you cry.....do realize that "not everyone is a christian"

I find it kinda funny how most of you on this thread are crying about how the "fundies" are the problem. Truth of the matter is is that the non-believers and others came down hard on most of these stores, including throwing lawsuits at them. Now, a lot of stores are afraid of "offending" somebody by saying "Merry Christmas". If those two words offends you that bad, then I say too Bad.

You blame the "fundies" for being the ones who made a war on Christmas when in fact, the kept quiet for so many years as the non-believers and others declared the war for fear of being offended. I think some of you need to check out the history.

By reading most of these posts, I come to realize that it's okay to be an extremist/activist unless your a christian or as you call them "stupid fundies".

My boss tells me every year that "It is Merry Christmas, not Happy Holidays. If they don't like it, who cares." and I say "Merry Christmas" happily.

why would you defend fundies? or are you one yourself?

and christian =\= fundie. i am not saying all christians are fundies.

but what should I expect from someone from the bible belt?

Wish people a Proper Crimbo instead. Bo Selecta.

I really don't see what the fuss is about. If someone wishes me well in any way, why take offense of that? I might not believe what they do, but it's the thought that counts. As long as they don't make gruesome blood sacrifices to ensure my prosperity.

And the fundies come out swinging! Sort of. I got an email from the group, AFA, today. The text reads as follows:


Here (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_magnet.gif) is a picture of the magnet, and the pin (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_pin.jpg)

And I thought Walmart was bad with starting Christmas early ;)

Pay us.... to wear our propaganda?

Capitalistmas came early this year...

The "fundies" as you cry.....do realize that "not everyone is a christian"

I find it kinda funny how most of you on this thread are crying about how the "fundies" are the problem. Truth of the matter is is that the non-believers and others came down hard on most of these stores, including throwing lawsuits at them. Now, a lot of stores are afraid of "offending" somebody by saying "Merry Christmas". If those two words offends you that bad, then I say too Bad.

You blame the "fundies" for being the ones who made a war on Christmas when in fact, the kept quiet for so many years as the non-believers and others declared the war for fear of being offended. I think some of you need to check out the history.

By reading most of these posts, I come to realize that it's okay to be an extremist/activist unless your a christian or as you call them "stupid fundies".

My boss tells me every year that "It is Merry Christmas, not Happy Holidays. If they don't like it, who cares." and I say "Merry Christmas" happily.

Whatever floats your boat.

I wonder if you are similalry tolerant of Islamic 'fundies'? Or are you one of those that calls them 'Islamofascists?'

My personal feeling is that I'm fine with "Merry Christmas". But then, why JUST Christmas at this time of year? Why deliberately choose to EXCLUDE other faiths from your salutation?

I know that the kind of Christians who bitch about "Merry Christmas" aren't likely to give two shits about non-Christians, but...

Couldn't they at least worry about their fellow Christians around the world, who are facing real discrimination and oppression and violence? Couldn't they direct their energy to helping Christians who are really in danger, and who really are being harmed? Wouldn't that be a more worthy concern, instead of complaining about how some people violate their right to be wished a Merry Christmas by shop clerks?

why would you defend fundies? or are you one yourself?

and christian =\= fundie. i am not saying all christians are fundies.

but what should I expect from someone from the bible belt?

No I am not a "fundie". I am a christian. I do confess that I am not a church goer (nor do I think I'm going to Hell for not going to church) I have lost my faith in the church. I have NOT lost my faith in God and Jesus Christ.

It saddens me how some can claim to be offended by "Merry Christmas"
It saddens me how Christmas has been commercialized.
It saddens me how these stores are now afraid to say "Merry Christmas"

I also don't like how Christmas skips over Halloween and Thanksgiving.

I know that the kind of Christians who bitch about "Merry Christmas" aren't likely to give two shits about non-Christians, but...

Couldn't they at least worry about their fellow Christians around the world, who are facing real discrimination and oppression and violence? Couldn't they direct their energy to helping Christians who are really in danger, and who really are being harmed? Wouldn't that be a more worthy concern, instead of complaining about how some people violate their right to be wished a Merry Christmas by shop clerks?

most do, at least most of the Christians I hang around with...we support efforts to help people all over the world.

I'm an atheist, and someone saying "Merry Christmas" doesn't bother me at all. As long as it's not the government promoting a religion, the private citizen, even while at work, should be able to say it. I also tolerate people who say they'll pray for me, as long as it's not praying for me on the assumption that I'll go to hell without their help.
I'm not bothered by being wished a "Merry Christmas," though I find it more polite when somebody wishes me "Happy Holidays" because it shows that they don't assume I observe Christmas.

In my opinion, if you're going to try to "bless" somebody else in this manner (wishing them a happy-whatever) then you are theoretically trying to be polite and nice to them. If you want to be polite and nice, I think it's better to not automatically assume everybody follows your religion or observes your holidays.

Also, I start wishing people "Happy Holidays" around Thanksgiving. The plural, holidays, is obviously more appropriate than wishing people Merry Christmas in late November.

most do, at least most of the Christians I hang around with...we support efforts to help people all over the world.

Yeah, but you aren't the kind of Christian who bitches about how Macy's isn't wishing you a Merry Christmas any more. From what I've read, you seem to be the sort to accept a holiday greeting in the spirit in which it is given, even if it doesn't include "Christ" in any way. You kooky extremist, you! :D

Yeah, but you aren't the kind of Christian who bitches about how Macy's isn't wishing you a Merry Christmas any more. From what I've read, you seem to be the sort to accept a holiday greeting in the spirit in which it is given, even if it doesn't include "Christ" in any way. You kooky extremist, you! :D

I am disgusted at the commercialization of Christmas that most Christians accept and run with and then complain when the stores tell them "Happy Holidays".....they are buying what the world is selling and then they get mad when the world is trying to sell it to someone else? hypocrites.

;)

Whatever floats your boat.

I wonder if you are similalry tolerant of Islamic 'fundies'? Or are you one of those that calls them 'Islamofascists?'

My personal feeling is that I'm fine with "Merry Christmas". But then, why JUST Christmas at this time of year? Why deliberately choose to EXCLUDE other faiths from your salutation?

Well, if you can't figure out on your own, how the difference between the far right "fundies" who don't kill innocent civilians in the name of God versus the Islam extremists who publicly admit to killing innocent civilians in the name of Allah, then that's your problem not mine.

So you know, I wasn't bashing any of the anti-Christmas or non believers. To the non-believers, I say what you say, "Whatever floats your boat."

Also, I do have a right to express my views, I expressed it peacefully too. No bashing was intended. I'm just tired of people whining and crying of how offensive "Merry Christmas" is when it is not.

I am disgusted at the commercialization of Christmas that most Christians accept and run with and then complain when the stores tell them "Happy Holidays".....they are buying what the world is selling and then they get mad when the world is trying to sell it to someone else? hypocrites.

;)
It really does confuse me, honestly. When I was young, the raging argument around Christmastime was about how Christians were angry that stores were commercializing Christmas so much...they were pissed off that Macy's was using "Merry Christmas" to sell trousers and stockings, and that Sears was selling glowing plastic nativities for 50% off. Yet here we are, only a few short years later, and the rage is directed at the stores that dare to STOP commercializing Christmas!

*baffled*

You blame the "fundies" for being the ones who made a war...I blame the Fundies for the Iraq War.
.. as you call them "stupid fundies".
Maybe they call them stupid because they were key opening the door into the White House... they let the Chimp in..
I find it kinda funny how most of you on this thread are crying about how the "fundies" are the problem.
No fundies >> No Bush >> No problem

oh and btw..
Merry Christmas to you, King Bodacious

It really does confuse me, honestly. When I was young, the raging argument around Christmastime was about how Christians were angry that stores were commercializing Christmas so much...they were pissed off that Macy's was using "Merry Christmas" to sell trousers and stockings, and that Sears was selling glowing plastic nativities for 50% off. Yet here we are, only a few short years later, and the rage is directed at the stores that dare to STOP commercializing Christmas!

*baffled*

I call it my "line" theory, people have that "line" that they don't want crossed, but they are too weak to keep it stable, they keep moving it further and further accomodating little things until the line is so far ahead of where it started that they can't remember where the original line was so they say "now I will draw a new line, and it will be here" and they are so afraid of the line moving that they have to pick something idiotic to use for the measure of the line, so that they won't move it, not this time.

In the end the line is meaningless because they bowed down early and gave up what was important and are now trying to make up for it with selfish, superficial, and idiotic things.

It's like my grandma said 'it's vain to offer words when actions are expected'

they feel an attack on their faith and they are right, only it's not the outside world that is attacking it, it's them, destroying their own faith and blaming it on others.

[/incoherent rant]

I blame the Fundies for the Iraq War.
Maybe they call them stupid because they were key opening the door into the White House... they let the Chimp in..No fundies >> No Bush >> No problem

oh and btw..
Merry Christmas to you, King Bodacious

Thank you, early Merry Christmas to you too.

Thank you, early Merry Christmas to you too.aoww man.. I was in the mood for a fist figth.

The "fundies" as you cry.....do realize that "not everyone is a christian"

I find it kinda funny how most of you on this thread are crying about how the "fundies" are the problem. Truth of the matter is is that the non-believers and others came down hard on most of these stores, including throwing lawsuits at them. Now, a lot of stores are afraid of "offending" somebody by saying "Merry Christmas". If those two words offends you that bad, then I say too Bad.

You blame the "fundies" for being the ones who made a war on Christmas when in fact, the kept quiet for so many years as the non-believers and others declared the war for fear of being offended. I think some of you need to check out the history.

By reading most of these posts, I come to realize that it's okay to be an extremist/activist unless your a christian or as you call them "stupid fundies".

My boss tells me every year that "It is Merry Christmas, not Happy Holidays. If they don't like it, who cares." and I say "Merry Christmas" happily.
Site it slugger, because that's bullshit. I worked retail for way too long. I call bullshit.

I'm not bothered by being wished a "Merry Christmas," though I find it more polite when somebody wishes me "Happy Holidays" because it shows that they don't assume I observe Christmas.

In my opinion, if you're going to try to "bless" somebody else in this manner (wishing them a happy-whatever) then you are theoretically trying to be polite and nice to them. If you want to be polite and nice, I think it's better to not automatically assume everybody follows your religion or observes your holidays.

Also, I start wishing people "Happy Holidays" around Thanksgiving. The plural, holidays, is obviously more appropriate than wishing people Merry Christmas in late November.

I was once nice like you. But I have gotten so frustrated in the last few years, especially since I started working in a retail environment again. I have to admitt I get kinda annoyed with the people who say "Merry Christmas", especially the people who emphasize it to prove that they are fighting the good fight against us godless heathens by not saying "Happy Holidays". The people who tell me to have a "blessed day" get me year round too, and I just grind my teeth, force myself to smile, and give the noncommital 'guy-nod'.

Happy Early Festivus everyone!

I'm tired of people that are offended by words.

I referred to a charity fund raiser I had supported-a theraputic riding center- that helped autistic and mentally retarded children.
Some dopey bitch got right in my face, with her finger and said "I hate that word" ? She took me completely by surprise-I said "what word?"
She said "retarded". She told me to look up retarded in the dictionary- it means stupid and she has a young boy thats "mentally handicapped" and he isnt stupid, he is slow. Other people start to look, I'm feeling retarded myself and tried to quietly explain that I certainly didnt give it any negative connotation, and taht we were both aware I wasnt speaking negatively about it, just speaking. I had participated and given generously in both time and money to support the place, who,as I remembered, billed themselves as giving therapy to both autistic and Mentally Retarded children.
She was disgusted with me and didnt back off, so I stood up and told her I felt she was making an issue to draw attention to herself as a martyr with a disadvantaged child and that she probably didnt like the words "fat assed bitch" but I was quite certain she had to hear those words several times a day and that now was a good time for her to summon her husband so I could punch him in the mouth for not keeping her under better control.
A pretty ugly scene, I was talking through my teeth and one of the other women sheepishly came over later to say I was right and that she didnt regonize me when I was mad, saying that it wasnt me it was "Mr Hyde".

Its really nice because this was a cub scout den meeting and this dopey twat goes to my church too.

I'm not proud of myself, but I can only take so much.

I'm very certain her husband will avoid me like the plaugue.

SO-if I mistakenly say "Merry Christmas" or "have a nice day" to some nit-picking douchebag thats offended and has the audacity to say something, Fuck Them.

And I mean that when I say it.

I actually agree with the "merry Christmas" in place of "seasons greetings" issue, however I do object to Christmas being the priority of a church, or business, in October.

I was once nice like you. But I have gotten so frustrated in the last few years, especially since I started working in a retail environment again. I have to admitt I get kinda annoyed with the people who say "Merry Christmas", especially the people who emphasize it to prove that they are fighting the good fight against us godless heathens by not saying "Happy Holidays". The people who tell me to have a "blessed day" get me year round too, and I just grind my teeth, force myself to smile, and give the noncommital 'guy-nod'.

Happy Early Festivus everyone!

Its absurd to assume you're significant enough for someone to be "fighting the good fight" against you.

Its the time of year people say it instead of "Have a Nice Day" or "Have a Good One". Its nearly meaningless, nothing more than an intended caual pleasantry.

Either way, its better than some surly clerk with poor hygiene that doesnt say a word or make any eye contact with any customer,who seems intent on raging against the "system" letting the world know how miserable they are with their station in life, how bored they are and how its everyone else's fault they are not some mega rich skater dude that owns his own software company.

I think all idiotic superstitions should be abolished. Easter Bunny, Tooth Fairy, and especially Santa Claus. They're all lies, blatant and obvious. If kids knew half of what their parents went through to make their christmas a happy time, they'd appreciate them a lot more - I don't think an imaginary fat guy should get one bit of the credit.

Its absurd to assume you're significant enough for someone to be "fighting the good fight" against you.

Its the time of year people say it instead of "Have a Nice Day" or "Have a Good One". Its nearly meaningless, nothing more than an intended caual pleasantry.

Either way, its better than some surly clerk with poor hygiene that doesnt say a word or make any eye contact with any customer,who seems intent on raging against the "system" letting the world know how miserable they are with their station in life, how bored they are and how its everyone else's fault they are not some mega rich skater dude that owns his own software company.

So you see the options as being A: A douche that insists on blessing everyone all the time, or B: An emogoth douche that fights the system by not saying anything.

Surely there's a middleground.

*snip cool story*

It's even more humorous when one realizes she apparently didn't even know what the word retarded means. I guess a fire retardent makes the fire stupider? :) Perhaps she should also look up the word ignorant.

It's even more humorous when one realizes she apparently didn't even know what the word retarded means. I guess a fire retardent makes the fire stupider? :) Perhaps she should also look up the word ignorant.

That's gay and retarded. Stop being ignorant to me.


<3

Its absurd to assume you're significant enough for someone to be "fighting the good fight" against you.


You misinterpreted what I said. I do not wear a "Kiss me I am an atheist" button, so there is no way to tell what my religious preference is. I was refering to the people who emphasize saying "Merry Christmas", because they think they are fighting the good fight by not saying "Happy Holidays". I guess it would have been clearer if I mentioned I worked at Sam's Club, which is of course owned by Wal-Mart.

Its the time of year people say it instead of "Have a Nice Day" or "Have a Good One". Its nearly meaningless, nothing more than an intended caual pleasantry.

If I want to wish somebody a nice day, I say "Have a nice day." If I want to wish them a Happy New Year, I wish them "Happy New Year." I assume, therefore, that people who wish me "Merry Christmas" are wishing me a Merry Christmas, else they would have chosen different words.

If somebody wants to be polite, then (in my personal opinion) it would be better that they not assume I'm Christian, or that I observe their religious holidays. Saying "Happy Holidays" isn't any more difficult than "Merry Christmas."

Now, if they are not trying to be polite, obviously this reasoning does not apply. If they simply want to let me know that THEY are Christian, that's their business and I won't yell at them for it. I'll treat it the same way I would if somebody hailed me with, "I'm a plumber!" My attitude is, "How lovely for you! Have a nice day!"

i reckon that'd get more annoying than people saying 'remember jesus' or whatever. at least you can zone out from the evangelism, 'fuck you' is more penetrating.

Puns make me giggle. Fuck is quite penetrating. Heh...

It's even more humorous when one realizes she apparently didn't even know what the word retarded means. I guess a fire retardent makes the fire stupider? :) Perhaps she should also look up the word ignorant.

I got home and told my wife the story and she looked up "retarded" to make sure we werent retarded.

No where, in any definition, did it include the word "stupid" in any. Even more so, I certainly wasnt using it in a deragotory way-No one could have observed and misinterpretted me. She was looking for attention. I wouldnt be surprised if she has a bumper sticker letting us all know she has a mentally handicapped child.

Part of me wanted to email the definition to her and suggest she print it, then shove it up her ass, but I'll really let it go. I'm not that bad and my anger passes immediately.
She and her husband are the ones that will have to change their behavior to avoid me.

You misinterpreted what I said. I do not wear a "Kiss me I am an atheist" button, so there is no way to tell what my religious preference is. I was refering to the people who emphasize saying "Merry Christmas", because they think they are fighting the good fight by not saying "Happy Holidays". I guess it would have been clearer if I mentioned I worked at Sam's Club, which is of course owned by Wal-Mart.

Well- accept my appologies, then. I'm in a bad mood, aside from being a retard.

And after reading your post here, I can actually see people asserting a "Merry Christmas" to you. Probably old people too.

I've always said I dont care what people worship as long as I cant tell.
I guess by saying "Merry Christmas", I break my own rule.

Please excuse me-I take back any hostility my previous post may have reflected.

Well- accept my appologies, then. I'm in a bad mood, aside from being a retard.

And after reading your post here, I can actually see people asserting a "Merry Christmas" to you. Probably old people too.

I've always said I dont care what people worship as long as I cant tell.
I guess by saying "Merry Christmas", I break my own rule.

Please excuse me-I take back any hostility my previous post may have reflected.
Wait, you are saying you see another person's point, and that you are sorry if you were hostile toward them, and that you can even see how your own statements break your own rule?

Don't you realize this is an INTERNET FORUM?! You're not allowed to be respectful and thoughtful around here!!!

Stop it this minute, you're frightening me!!

:D

Wait, you are saying you see another person's point, and that you are sorry if you were hostile toward them, and that you can even see how your own statements break your own rule?

Don't you realize this is an INTERNET FORUM?! You're not allowed to be respectful and thoughtful around here!!!

Stop it this minute, you're frightening me!!

:D

Yeah- thats pretty much it. I sometimes actually see if I'm inconsistant and I'll admit it.

Now I'll have to dig up the link to Focus on the Family's Halloween page...

http://www.focusonyourchild.com/entertain/art1/A0000638.html

Seriously. Fundies will hijack anything and try to turn it into a religious holiday. Granted, most Christians aren't insane like this, but the ones who are like this tend to ruin it for the rest of them. Insisting on saying "Merry Christmas", which blatantly snubs the all-important New Year's, is a bit inane.

Puns make me giggle. Fuck is quite penetrating. Heh...

I missed that one the first time. Reminds me of what I saw on another board awhile back...someone wanted to campaign to replace both "Merry Christmas" and "Happy Holidays" with "Go Fuck Yourself." I can just imagine it.

"And that's all for our news program this evening. On this December 24th, I'm Katie Couric. Go fuck yourselves, America."

"And your change is $3.87. Go fuck yourself, sir."

"And though it's been said many times many ways...go fuck yourself to you."

"On Dasher, On Dancer...Ho Ho Ho, Go Fuck Yourselves!"

It's absolutely revolutionary. Plus, people on TV can say "fuck" without getting bleeped.

No I am not a "fundie". I am a christian. I do confess that I am not a church goer (nor do I think I'm going to Hell for not going to church) I have lost my faith in the church. I have NOT lost my faith in God and Jesus Christ.

It saddens me how some can claim to be offended by "Merry Christmas"
It saddens me how Christmas has been commercialized.
It saddens me how these stores are now afraid to say "Merry Christmas"

I also don't like how Christmas skips over Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Yet you work in retail. If you hate it so much, then how can you be a part of it?

Tell me...do you buy your gifts for friends and family? If so, you are just as guilty as anyone else for the commercialization.

groups that I associate with often have far right fundies in them. ;)

I am the "liberal" one.

You wouldnt consider yourself a fundamentalist?

Yet you work in retail. If you hate it so much, then how can you be a part of it?

Tell me...do you buy your gifts for friends and family? If so, you are just as guilty as anyone else for the commercialization.

I feel that there is a difference between commercialization and giving in the name of Jesus Christ.

When these kids today get their mountains of gifts how many of them today actually know the meaning behind Christmas? Christmas is the time to give, it is also the time for awareness of why we have a Christmas.

I think people get out of control with buying gifts for their kids and whoever else that the true meaning of Christmas is deeply hidden. You ask kids (I know this is generalization) what Christmas means to them they'll typically say the gifts or Santa Clause.

I feel that there is a difference between commercialization and giving in the name of Jesus Christ.

When these kids today get their mountains of gifts how many of them today actually know the meaning behind Christmas? Christmas is the time to give, it is also the time for awareness of why we have a Christmas.

I think people get out of control with buying gifts for their kids and whoever else that the true meaning of Christmas is deeply hidden. You ask kids (I know this is generalization) what Christmas means to them they'll typically say the gifts or Santa Clause.

We have Christmas because of the pagans. I remember why we have the celebration we do but most of my Christian friends want to ignore the fact that 99 percent of their holiday ceremonies have absolutely nothing to do with their religion

and No, I do not work in retail. I'm not sure where you got that from.

I feel that there is a difference between commercialization and giving in the name of Jesus Christ. Yeah...commercialization is going out and buying something for someone. You could make the gifts, or help them with something. Or, just not give a gift. There is no need to do so, and it is a pagan ritual, not Christian. Hell, Christ wasn't even born on Christmas.

When these kids today get their mountains of gifts how many of them today actually know the meaning behind Christmas? Christmas is the time to give, it is also the time for awareness of why we have a Christmas.Giving isn't always material. I'd rather have my friends go work in a soup kitchen for me for an hour or two than get some piece of crap I'm never going to use.

I think people get out of control with buying gifts for their kids and whoever else that the true meaning of Christmas is deeply hidden. You ask kids (I know this is generalization) what Christmas means to them they'll typically say the gifts or Santa Clause.And the other half would believe that it is actually the birthday of some guy named Jesus Christ. Neither part of which is true.

and No, I do not work in retail. I'm not sure where you got that from.Sorry, misread something you said earlier.

And the fundies come out swinging! Sort of. I got an email from the group, AFA, today. The text reads as follows:


Here (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_magnet.gif) is a picture of the magnet, and the pin (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_pin.jpg)

And I thought Walmart was bad with starting Christmas early ;)

PLEASE BUY ME THE PIN.

Please?

You wouldnt consider yourself a fundamentalist?

of course I consider myself a fundamentalist, my associates think I am too liberal hence the "liberal" in quotation marks.

I have taken revenge on them (see below)

http://img275.imageshack.us/img275/1065/merrynewyearcs6.gif

if you can improve this, plz do so.

You will celebrate the holiday as I say, and you will be happy about it.

i reckon that'd get more annoying than people saying 'remember jesus' or whatever. at least you can zone out from the evangelism, 'fuck you' is more penetrating.

Some may find it to be the other way around......

Anyways, I'd tell them that their God found that She couldn't carry little baby Jesus and so made Mary the surrogate mother.

Either that or tell them that Mary got it on with someone other than Joseph but told Joseph that it was God's (assuming God is male). ;)

Then tell them about the Winter Solstice celebration you're planning. :D

Though, that may be just as effective as a loud, penetrating "f@#$ you!"

Well, if you can't figure out on your own, how the difference between the far right "fundies" who don't kill innocent civilians in the name of God versus the Islam extremists who publicly admit to killing innocent civilians in the name of Allah, then that's your problem not mine.


Because Christians have always brought love and puppies.

You do realise that most Muslim fundamentalists, are not running around blowing shit up? Just a evry small, very vocal minority?

Are you American? You do realise that the US constantly projects itself on the world stage as a militantly Christian nation? (Seriously - if you are an American, you might be surprised how the rest of the world sees you). And I don't mean your enemies - I mean even by your friends... this constant American vocal obsession with 'one nation under god'... like any deity would seriously chose THIS place to live.

You have George Bush suggesting he is fighting God's war in the Middle East - and the American fundamentalists are backing him. How do you THINK that is perceived in the rest of the world?

According to public perceptions in the middle east, Christian fundamentalism is lethal not in terms of a small violent minority - but in terms of the might of the American war machine.

Christians might want to think about that when they vote, this year.


So you know, I wasn't bashing any of the anti-Christmas or non believers. To the non-believers, I say what you say, "Whatever floats your boat."


No you don't. You said you happily throw yourself in with your boss and his/her 'who cares if it offends' attitude.


Also, I do have a right to express my views, I expressed it peacefully too. No bashing was intended. I'm just tired of people whining and crying of how offensive "Merry Christmas" is when it is not.

Of course it isn't offensive to you! But, to the other faiths that celebrate in the same season, for whom you deny any significance, and whom you lambast with your religious beliefs, it might reek of offense a little.

And the fundies come out swinging! Sort of. I got an email from the group, AFA, today. The text reads as follows:


Here (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_magnet.gif) is a picture of the magnet, and the pin (http://www.afa.net/images/christmas_pin.jpg)

And I thought Walmart was bad with starting Christmas early ;)

Hmm. They're Christians who believe in their faith enough to make a stand for what they believe in, so they must be Fundies! But, when it's an athiest who stands up for his non-beliefs and pokes fun at everything he thinks is "wrong", he's a hero! Wow, what typical bull.

Hmm. They're Christians who believe in their faith enough to make a stand for what they believe in, so they must be Fundies! But, when it's an athiest who stands up for his non-beliefs and pokes fun at everything he thinks is "wrong", he's a hero! Wow, what typical bull.

No - they are 'christians' who choose to ignore the actual history of the festival, and who chose to attempt to alienate every other group of religious or non-religious people, just to try to reinforce some kind of claim on ownership of a specific date...? Which is a bizarre enough concept, when you think about it.

And God fuck us, everyone.

... Now I have the horrible idea of downloading Dicken's A Christmas Carol and using word to do a find and replace... :p
There ya go.

Watercooler scene:

"Hey, what'd you do over the holidays, NERVUN?"

"Well, Bob, check it out." *whips out manuscript* "The whole family worked on these. We mailed them out instead of cards this year."

You really want to fight these guys, remind them that Christmas, December 25, was originally the Pagean Saturnalia, and was only associated with Christ because Emperor Constantine was too unoriginal to create a single holiday for his new savior. I exagerate of course.

Any theologist worth his salt will tell you this, and to banish any doubts of my motivations, I'm a Catholic...so nyah!
Ha, if we really want to discomfort them, we should celebrate the actual Saturnalia, as the Romans did. That was a pretty good party.

Here, this will put us all in the proper mood: David Sedaris's "Santaland Diaries."

http://odeo.com/audio/568281/view

Ah, yes, I remember Santaland. At Macy's in NY's Herald Square it was. I even knew I guy worked as an elf there once. I think he may have been "Snowball" in the Diaries.

What? But they just finished telling us we're devil-worshippers for celebrating Halloween!