Jesus never mentioned

Re: Storm In A Christmas Coffee Cup, letter to the editor, Nov. 12. Letter-writer Lawrence Cohen rightly points out that the season is about peace and harmony. However, I cannot be the only one who sees the absurdity of the Christian far-right’s furor over disposable paper cups that lack yuletide imagery. yuletide is a Germanic festival that was incorporated into Christianity. To those who are losing their minds screaming Starbucks has taken the Christ out of Christmas ... it was never there to begin with. The cups, while having a “holiday” theme, have never had any mention (as far as I could find) of Jesus.

The artwork in the past has had: snowflakes, pine trees, Frosty the Snowman, tree ornaments, reindeer and ribbon bows, among other symbols. It’s your typical “corporate” holiday imagery, without any actual religious imagery. There are no mangers, magi, or mary with child. If anyone should be offended by the new cups, it’s the pagans. Try as I might, I cannot find any connection of Jesus to snowflakes, snowmen or reindeer. Instead of obsessing about latte packaging, how about we get back to principles and try to be nicer to each other?

Justin Laflamme, Toronto.

I follow Hinduism and am from India. I have been in North America for about 20 years. I agree with the opinion voiced by Lawrence Cohen. There is no need for organizations to stop/change things in the name of political correctness. I do not find it offensive when someone wishes me “merry Christmas.” In fact, seeing my skin colour if someone wishes me “Happy Holidays,” I’ve made a point to wish them “merry Christmas” back. We set up Christmas trees in our house and exchange gifts.

equally, I appreciate when someone wishes me “Happy diwali,” and we celebrate it by exchanging sweets with friends and wearing new clothes. After all, more religious/cultural occasions mean more reasons to celebrate. We shouldn’t lose our identity in the name of political correctness.

Satish Thiyagarajan, Mississauga, Ont.