DEAR ABBY: This is in response to "Jewish in Cincinnati," who offered a litany of ways in which Christians broadcast their religious beliefs.
He or she should move to metropolitan New York where entire malls are closed every Sunday because of "blue laws," and stores are closed on Saturdays because of strict Jewish beliefs. I give all of the aforementioned credit for honoring God. However, when "Jewish in Cincinnati" complains about Christmas music blaring from October to January, let's not confuse Christianity with consumerism. Half those offending stores and malls may not even be owned by Christians.
I grew up in an inner-city neighborhood in a small stretch of houses situated between a synagogue and a Jewish school. Every one of our neighbors had a strong sense of tolerance and caring. My grandma traded her Italian pastries with our Jewish neighbor for her delicious cheesecake. We manned the candy store, without thought of repayment, on high holy days for our Jewish neighbor. On Friday nights, my dad always turned off the lights at the synagogue.
It seems to me that we were more understanding and tolerant in years past. What are we really learning from Kosovo, or even Littleton, Colo.? So a comedian or celebrity needs to tell people he's Jewish. So what? It's his shtick! In the meantime, if you're traveling through Hashbrouck Heights, N.J., at Christmastime, you'll see my Roman Catholic church decorated with a nativity scene and a menorah. I think that's what makes America great! – ROMAN CATHOLIC IN NEW JERSEY
DEAR ROMAN CATHOLIC: I agree, and it harkens back to a gentler time when America pictured itself more a melting pot and less a patchwork quilt. The world would be a more hospitable place if attitudes were more inclusive and less exclusive. I'm reminded of the song lyric, "What the world needs now is love." (End of sermon.)