I am a foreigner, ergo - I love/celebrate Christmas

[Slytovhand]

I suppose this really just comes down to a 'Clash of Cultures' thing, but I'm getting the 'Merry Christmas - you must be really liking it - what are you doing for Christmas" thing from a whole stack of students and other teachers here...

No, I don't celebrate it.. which is fine with them when I explain it to them... but just as we have stereotypes of other cultures, they really have a big one over here as well...

And, to be honest, it's bloody annoying!

(what is a tad interesting, I even have to suggest they don't wish a Muslim "Merry Christmas"... and they didn't realise it might be an issue until I suggested it!)


Before anyone gets knickers in knots, this isn't a discussion on religion, but on stereotypes and assumptions!

[Greenday]

One thing I don't always get, regardless of your religion or lack there of, December 25th is Christmas just like February 14th is Valentine's Day. So if someone wishes you a merry Christmas, just take it as a have a nice day. I don't see the point in taking offense to it.

[HYHYBT]

What I don't get is how people are supposed to know what holidays anyone does or doesn't celebrate unless they've been told. Or do they already know you're Muslim? Come to think of it, I'd probably say 'Merry Christmas' even if I knew, just out of habit, and then be horribly embarrassed about it.

[jackfaire]

Also are you American? Typically in North America Christmas is a huge thing even if you don't share the christian faith (like myself). In most cases telling an American Merry Christmas results in a pleased person.

[Fryk]

Actually, GreenDay, Christmas is supposed to START on Christmas. Then it goes on and on and on until January 6th, which is the start of MARDI GRAS BABY!!!!