>would also like to ask what would be a proper response from an agnostic to someone who wishes me merry Christmas, while we're >in the "does not apply" department. If I wished the same back, does it have any validity, coming from an unbeliever? Because I >only wish them to have good time and be happy for their holidays. Also, what would be a polite way to thank for good wishes, >however misguided they were, knocking on wrong door? I usually manage a slightly confused smile and a few not-fully-articulated >words, because I really don't know what to say, and I don't want to offend you. Just like I wish not to be offended. So... >what's proper?

Dragan,

The best response would be to reply with some kind of generic "Seasons greetings." I truly believe that people that go around wishing merry christmas or happy holidays are not trying to make assumptions or impose beliefs to an individual, but rather are making an assuption that everyone else shares on their "holiday" (I would blame the advertising community with all those flyers with xmas on them, nary one with kwanzaa or hannukah on them), or that they just don;t care to know the person they are wishing a merry/happy holiday. Also, what is the deal with the word holiday? It sounds too much like holly-day and too many memorials/commemorations that have nothing to do with religion are called holidays....

I just do season greetings to everyone! And I always have a vegetarian plate when I have people over for diner - another courtesy that any one living in today's shrinking world should adopt.