DEAR ABBY: I'd like to add my two cents to the reader who complained about Jewish celebrities who "constantly remind everyone that they're Jewish."
If "Curious in Tampa" thinks that flaunting one's religious beliefs is a Jewish trait, try taking a drive in December and count the number of houses in which the residents remind everyone that they are Christian with lights, wreaths, crosses and nativity scenes. He or she should visit a mall between October and January, and try to find one that does NOT have Christmas music blaring from every speaker. I wonder how many times "Curious" has asked a new acquaintance, "So, do you have any plans for Easter?" or, "Have you finished your Christmas shopping yet?"
Abby, you should have suggested that "Curious" try to buy something from Christian-owned businesses on a Sunday when they are the only stores closed in the mall. Imagine how other religious groups feel in a world where everyone assumes they are Christian. Maybe then "Curious" might understand why some Jews feel the need to remind people of who they are (or who they are not). -- JEWISH IN CINCINNATI
DEAR JEWISH IN CINCINNATI: You have made some astute observations. However, as I advised "Curious," he or she would have to ask each of the Jewish celebrities who were mentioned, because their responses would be unique.