We wish you a Merry Something-or-Other
Stateline.org recently did a story detailing what the nation's 50 governors say when they send greeting cards this time of year. From the story:
A Stateline.org survey found that 37 of the 50 state leaders – 18 Democrats and 19 Republicans -- are sending wishes for a happy -- nameless -- holiday. Nine governors – two Democrats and seven Republicans -- are explicit in wishing the joy of "Christmas."
It continues:
The distinction between Christmas and holiday cards came to the fore this year when President Bush’s card – featuring a snow-draped White House with no holiday bunting -- was drubbed by conservative activists who claimed the president gave in to political correctness by failing to mention “Christmas.” While the majority of governors’ cards also use all-inclusive holiday language, their messages can’t be categorized as neatly as Santa’s naughty and nice list.
For those of you who are wondering, Gov. Mike Easley's cards read: "At this time of the year, we want to extend our best wishes. May God bless you and your family during this holiday season," according to material that ran with the story giving the text from all the governor's greetings.
Some governors stuck with a simple one line greeting, while others got really wordy. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee are neck and neck for the verboseness prize.
But it's Gov. Mark Sanford of South Carolina who wins the award for sending a holiday greeting that also serves as an admonition to his fellow pols: "May we all live honorably, walk humbly, and give abundant thanks to the Lord for our many blessings this holiday season," a quote from Micah 6:8.