Merry Christmas! No, wait. Happy Chanukah? Excuse me. “Happy Holidays.” Have a great “winter break,” not Christmas break, I assure you.

In any influential position, whether it’s the Editor-in-Chief of a paper such as myself, or perhaps a teacher or principal or someone of the sorts, remaining “politically correct” can prove to be trivial. In terms of the newspaper, we vow to show no bias, but does that put me in the wrong to wish my readers a “Merry Christmas” because that’s what I celebrate?

Anyone with power is scrutinized down to the bone, and we will always search for problems with those who are “above” us. Many unfiltered statements slide under our noses each day, but our senses are suddenly heightened when a teacher curses or makes a slightly-offensive joke (in good nature) or doesn’t stick to the impartial, status quo. And then, we only focus on this one minor negative to criticize him or her. I’ve done it myself, but ultimately no one is truly neutral. We all have our own opinions, preferences, beliefs, what have you, and when something as inconsequential as “Have a good Christmas break” is stirring up a squall, it’s time to re-sort our priorities.

I don’t have a lot to say this month (let’s be honest, it’s nearly break), except: let people support what they want to support and cut them some slack if they slip up. We uproar about prejudice towards a certain religion, race, tradition, etc. and in reality are only beating down those who want to express themselves. I can almost guarantee finding a teacher or counselor or reporter’s words offensive is not intentional. You let your friends swear – why not your teacher in the heat of a moment? We’re all capable of acting like adults. But – although an example, that is beside the point.

Wish someone a Merry Christmas. Shout “Happy Chanukah” from the rooftops. Sing “O Come All Ye Faithful.” It’s the gusto that matters. The spirit, if you will. Merry Christmas everyone, and have a great break. See you in January.

Kenzie Weller, Senior Managing Editor