Who would have thought that a time as happy as Christmas could be so controversial? It's supposed to be the happiest time of the year people! Along with the stress of all the preparations, there is that pesky little phrase nobody likes: Happy Holidays. Quite a blah phrase. It's like we are not sure what we are supposed to be happy for so this phrase will do. However, this phrase should not always be taken in offense. Now, before you write me nasty letters, let me explain.
When somebody who does not know us says Happy Holidays, it is not a problem. The poor soul is probably so afraid of offending us that they are playing it safe. I will also point out that there are many people who celebrate other holidays like Hannakah and Kwanza. Retailers are just trying to reach all of their customers regardless of their beliefs. The best response to this is just to say thanks. I am very strong in my beliefs so I have no problem saying Happy Holidays back.
Happy Holidays only becomes offensive when it is specifically used to exclude somebody's beliefs. Calling a menorah candle a holiday light or a Christmas tree a holiday tree is offensive because these are specific symbols for these holidays. Also, trying to force out a display of a Nativity scene when other religions are equally represented is wrong too. If the only thing an Atheist can contribute to a holiday display is a banner bashing all the other religions there, it should not be admitted. They should stick with a something like a Winter Solstice display.
The big question is, are you really that uncomfortable with the fact that you are different from me? If that is the case, then in Oklahoma we should ban all saying of "Boomer Sooner" or "Ride "Em Cowboy" because that could be offensive to the other fans. I also find LSU fans screaming "Tiger Bait" in my face offensive so let's ban that too. Do you see the silliness in this?
So let's all lighten up! If you like saying "Merry Christmas," say it with pride. But if somebody says, "Happy Hannakah," smile and say, "Happy Hannakah to you too."
To everybody just lightening up and having an egg nog,
Culture Girl
Monday, December 5, 2011
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Visting v. Residing, Don't Sell Your House Just Yet
There is a show on HGTV called House Hunters International. While I find this show very fascinating, at times it can be painful to watch. Some people have very legitimate reasons to move to another country (jobs, family, etc.). But when I see people with comfortable lives and have absolutely no reason to move look for houses in some "island paradise," I bury my face in my hands. "You don't have enough money!" "That country is dangerous!" "You are going to get so bored!" These are just a few thoughts that go through my mind as I watch. Then I started thinking about how many times I have seen people look bewildered when they meet somebody who has moved from Hawaii or California. It's like people think that living in these places is an endless vacation. Let me help those who may not understand why I think staying put may be your best option.
Al places will lose their. novelty. Think of going on vacation as being on a honeymoon. It is fun and exciting for a week or so. But living there is like being married. While you may love the place, the beaches, shops, and sights will turn ordinary after awhile. And while I do like warm weather, seeing the same season year round would get boring.
Do you really want to be trapped on an island? Most Americans love their roadtrips. You can kiss those goodbye if you move to an island. You are cut off from the rest of the world.You will see those same sights over and over. On top of that, everything has to be shipped in and will cost you a fortune. If you need proof of this, just check out the gas prices in Hawaii.
Do you really want to blow your life savings? I think people really underestimate just how expensive it is to relocate. People also forget they will not have the same income they had back home. I see this on HHI all the time. People have a budget and then are disappointed with what they can afford. My word of advice? Leave your 401k intact.
Do you really want to lose your rights? I have booked car reservations for four years now. I continue to be amazed at how many people think the US has jurisdiction over the whole world. Once you leave the US, all those awesome rights that our troops fought for you to have go bye bye. You move to England? Get ready to pay 20% VAT on almost everything. You move to China? Don't say anything bad about the Communists unless you want jailtime. Move to Singapore? Kiss your car goodbye (along with your chewing gum) because the government makes cars darn near impossible to afford.
I have traveled enough to know that I love where I live. I have freedom, cost of living is low, people are friendly, and the government, while not perfect, is for the most part fair. I don't live in a tourist haven and that is perfectly okay with me. I am perfectly content knowing that somewhere different and exciting is just a plane ride (or drive) away.
Here is to Home Sweet home,
Culture Girl
Al places will lose their. novelty. Think of going on vacation as being on a honeymoon. It is fun and exciting for a week or so. But living there is like being married. While you may love the place, the beaches, shops, and sights will turn ordinary after awhile. And while I do like warm weather, seeing the same season year round would get boring.
Do you really want to be trapped on an island? Most Americans love their roadtrips. You can kiss those goodbye if you move to an island. You are cut off from the rest of the world.You will see those same sights over and over. On top of that, everything has to be shipped in and will cost you a fortune. If you need proof of this, just check out the gas prices in Hawaii.
Do you really want to blow your life savings? I think people really underestimate just how expensive it is to relocate. People also forget they will not have the same income they had back home. I see this on HHI all the time. People have a budget and then are disappointed with what they can afford. My word of advice? Leave your 401k intact.
Do you really want to lose your rights? I have booked car reservations for four years now. I continue to be amazed at how many people think the US has jurisdiction over the whole world. Once you leave the US, all those awesome rights that our troops fought for you to have go bye bye. You move to England? Get ready to pay 20% VAT on almost everything. You move to China? Don't say anything bad about the Communists unless you want jailtime. Move to Singapore? Kiss your car goodbye (along with your chewing gum) because the government makes cars darn near impossible to afford.
I have traveled enough to know that I love where I live. I have freedom, cost of living is low, people are friendly, and the government, while not perfect, is for the most part fair. I don't live in a tourist haven and that is perfectly okay with me. I am perfectly content knowing that somewhere different and exciting is just a plane ride (or drive) away.
Here is to Home Sweet home,
Culture Girl
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