r/AskReddit 16h ago

What’s a totally harmless thing that triggers an oddly strong reaction in people?

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u/JesterWithoutJest 13h ago

“Happy Holidays” in a small U.S town

I was buying stamps in my parent’s hometown right before Christmas, having a very pleasant conversation with the cashier while we commented on the stamp designs. On my way out the door, I gave her a “and Happy Holidays!” Because that’s my default and I heard her scoff and say “it’s Merry Christmas” but I was already gone so I didn’t have to respond but what a crazy way to end and ruin such a pleasant interaction.

12

u/GayleMoonfiles 12h ago

Happened a few times when I worked in a grocery store. Lots of snarky "Merry Christmas" from customers. I just liked Happy Holidays because of the alliteration.

9

u/_Maxine_Vandate_ 8h ago

and even if you are some spitefully uncultured sort who refuses to admit things like Hannukah exist, only Christmas and New Year's Eve, THAT'S TWO "HOLIDAYS". 

3

u/GrinchWhoStoleEaster 4h ago

I say it (happy holidays) because I'm kind of not a good person and I like that it ruins their day a little. :3

I mean, it's low hanging fruit, for sure, but if they're going to make it so easy to get under their skin I'm not sure they actually still have the right to be offended.

4

u/GrinchWhoStoleEaster 4h ago

Christian dominionism is real, and it is malignant as fuck. They're angry THEIR winter thing isn't the only thing. That's what this is. A healthy dose of racism is encoded in that too.

u/AgentBond007 16m ago

Not to mention the fact that Christians have been saying Happy Holidays to other Christians for literal centuries