Lauren – It’s no question that the Jewish religion is one of the more uncommon religions. With only 16 million people in the world who identify with the religion, we are few and far between. The holiday season is upon us and there is an overwhelming amount of Christmas spirit. Lights are up, joy is in the air, and Christmas trees are decorated. However, the Jewish people are celebrating in their own way.

When it comes to Christmas, instead of opening presents from Santa, most Jewish people have the tradition of going out to the movies with their families. Christmas for most Jews consists of ordering Chinese food. However, this year Jews around the world will be celebrating the second night of Hanukkah on December 25.

Aside from Christmas day, during the holiday season, Jewish people encounter many Christmas related things. These include but are not limited, to 24/7 Christmas music playing in grocery stores, on the radio, and in restaurants. Most don’t mind the constant jolly music, although it may feel awkward to some. One student who was being interviewed asked, “What do you say when someone says Merry Christmas?” I simply said that I pretend that they said Happy Hanukkah and carry on with my day. Some Jewish people from Temple Shalom in Colorado Springs said that they feel left out because of the lack of Hanukkah related music, movies, and decorations.

Jonathan – My mother’s family practices Christian traditions while my father’s family is Jewish. This creates an interesting mix of the two during holiday season in my household. As a result, my family celebrates both Christmas and Hanukkah.

A Pew Research poll found that “nine-in-ten Americans say they celebrate Christmas.” This 90% is quite a larger majority than the 3% of Americans that celebrate Hanukkah. Therefore, it is completely fair to expect the general American public to lean towards Christmas themed songs, movies, and decorations. Personally, I am not a huge fan of everything Christmas, especially when it’s October and Christmas items are already being sold. However, if it makes others happy hearing Christmas music when they shop for their Christmas things, then why should I let it bother me?

The perspective gained from celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah has only strengthened this belief. Who am I to judge the great majority of Americans who celebrate Christmas and find happiness in the lights, melodies, and other traditions? If someone says, “merry Christmas,” I’ll respond with a “merry Christmas” as well. If someone wishes me a happy Hanukkah, “happy Hanukkah” right back. “Have a lively Kwanzaa!” “You too!”

There is no reason to be hostile towards others’ traditions during the holidays. Let the Jews find happiness in honoring 8 nights of their history and the Christians find joy in celebrating the birth of Christ. The holidays are about warmth and togetherness, not trying to cope with someone else’s customs.