I'm not sure how long this has been around but there is a particular holiday posting that has always struck me as odd. It has a viral nature to it so you'll probably see it at some point on status updates, comment threads or online greeting cards.
To My Democrat Friends:
I wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2010, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make America great. Not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country nor the only America in the Western Hemisphere . Also, this wish is made without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith or sexual preference of the wish.
To My Republican Friends:
Happy New Year!
There are many variations to it and I believe the "Merry Christmas" version is the most common. It's obviously intended as an insult to a more "politically correct" style of thinking (apprently only associated with Democrats). It mocks political correctness by contrasting it with what is believed to be a simpler alternative. And in the "Merry Christmas" version, it clearly has a pro-religion message.
Every time I see this I can't help but be struck by how backwards this insult is. In my eyes, it shows very clearly how thinking of others takes actual work and effort. While thinking only of yourself is a path taking little or no effort at all.
Whether looking at this from a religious or political perspective... doesn't this simply make the person (party or religion) doing the posting look bad?
I suppose the insult is in the eye of the beholder. As for me, while not being associated with any political party or religion, I'm proud to be in the category that makes an effort on behalf of others.
Happy New Year!