It is that time of year when most people want to express their thoughtfulness to colleagues and friends but are not quite sure of how to put their feelings into words without insulting someone.  After reading the first sentence of this article you are probably wondering what I am really trying to say.  Many Americans are being encouraged to speak in a politically correct manner so as not to offend others.          Has political correctness reduced our conversations so that nothing is really being communicated?  Let me offer you an example of politically correct speech that recently happened to me in a restaurant.  I was greeted by a waiter with the term “happy holidays”.  The expression "happy holidays" is used by employees of many businesses and can be found on many greeting cards.  I asked the waiter what he meant by saying happy holidays.  He politely tried to explain himself without naming the holiday.  The waiter became more nervous as I asked him to be more specific about the word holiday.  I finally let the poor waiter relax as I told him that I was not celebrating a holiday but was enjoying Christmas.           The media has indicated that using the word Christmas is not politically correct because I am offending other religions.  I am proud to be politically incorrect because this is Christmas and not just a holiday!  So please have courage and wish everyone that you greet with the words, "Merry Christmas."          To end the restaurant story, I did wish the waiter a Merry Christmas and he responded in the same way with a big smile on his face.   Merry Christmas