I asked Alan the other day (この間) why he says "Happy Holidays" more than "Merry Christmas" in December. He explained that since different people celebrate (祝う) different holidays during this season, he prefers "Happy Holidays" so as not to offend anyone (誰の感情も害さないため).
I then asked him why we never have a Christmas tree. He said that one reason was because he didn't want me to spread my "Christmas cheer" in the house. Then he told me the real reason: Because we're Jewish (ユダヤ人), we celebrate Hanukkah, also known as (a.k.a.) (～の別名でも知られる) the Festival of Lights (光の祭り).
Hanukkah lasts eight days, during which time we light a 9-branched menorah (9本枝の大燭台), starting with two candles on the first night and adding a candle each night. We also exchange presents (プレゼント交換) and eat special food like brisket of beef, latkes (potato pancakes), and sufganiyot (jelly donuts).
Our family enjoyed Hanukkah very much this year, in part thanks to R.T. and his wonderfully-timed present: The menorah in the above photo.
We wish the best for everyone during this holiday season.
Happy Holidays,
Chibi
