Official US holiday greetings

[billvon 3,120]

WASHINGTON - The White House today denied that it intended to influence any government employees to choose certain holiday songs or greetings. The denial came a few days after a White House aide leaked a memo from the administration to certain governmental agencies, which implied that certain public holiday greetings might give enemies of the US the 'wrong idea' about the course the administration would pursue in the new year.

"During the holiday period, please remember that news releases from your agencies will be read throughout the world," the memo stated. "Messages that have to do with peace, forgiveness and goodwill may be interpreted to mean that the US has become 'soft' on the War on Terror."

"We absolutely do not intend to restrict what anyone here in the US can do, say or sing during the holidays," said White House Spokesperson Ari Fleischer in a news conference today. "We would simply like to encourage US governmental organizations to emphasize holiday greetings with themes of strength and resolve, rather than messages that might be perceived as weakness." He then gave a few examples of themes the administration would prefer, including "Onward, Christian Soldiers" and "Little Drummer Boy," the latter apparently making reference to a military theme in the Middle East. He also implied that quotes from either the Bible or the Koran would be appropriate, mentioning that the President used a quote from the Book of Psalms in his Christmas card.

When asked about whether the administration would therefore support biblical quotes such as "peace on earth, goodwill towards men" Fleischer paused a moment, then repeated "We prefer themes of strength."

[steve1 5]

Bill,
Talk about twisted thinking. No wonder so many people hate Americans. I sent some Christmas cards this year that actually said "Peace on Earth and Goodwill to All". I guess this is a sign of weakness, and I should have checked with the government first to see if it was appropriate or not. Steve1