Patch Question: Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays?

It's a debate that now seems to arise every year around this time: Should people use the term "Merry Christmas" or something more generic such as "Happy Holidays" or "Season's Greetings"?

The latter has become popular due to the variety of religious holidays taking place this season, but those who say there is a "war on Christmas" have rallied in recent years, saying people who insist on "Happy Holidays" are being too politically correct.

Most residents on the Rockville Centre Patch Facebook page said "Merry Christmas" is what they normally go with.

"Nowadays everyone is trying to change things to be politicly correct, growing up it was always we wish you a merry christmas and oh christmas tree, nuff said," Tom Ottinger said.

However, there were others who said it depends on the situation they are in.

"Depends who you are and who you are talking to," Janet Shainis Cisario said. "I celebrate Christmas, but many people don't, so if you don't know who you are speaking to, something more generic makes sense."

Facebook user Judy Leff said: "Why would you want to wish someone a happy something if that's not what they celebrate? My general rule of thumb, if I know what holiday the person celebrates, then I wish them a Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas, etc. If I don't know, then the inclusive Happy Holidays is appropriate."

Which option do you prefer? Tell us in the comment section.