Interesting post.
I have several Jewish friends and when I do Christmas cards, I specially buy a few Happy Holidays cards to send them instead of the traditional Christmas card.
They're Reform Jews and I doubt they'd take offense at getting a Christmas card - but nonetheless, I don't wanna take a chance at them feeling awkward or put off because of it.
My guess is that you are right, they would not be offended by a Christmas card but appreciate your thoughtfulness in getting them a Holiday card instead.
BTW, I will probably post this to a number of different threads, but I expect Santa Claus will again be visiting my niece's (my wife and I are raising her) school this year and we will be putting up Christmas lights soon. I don't think anyone will be offended by either, even though my wife and niece are Buddhist, the neighborhood is Muslim, and I am Jewish. This is one of the nice things about living in Thailand.
I could probably live with it.
"They're Reform Jews and I doubt they'd take offense at getting a Christmas card"
There again, why would anyone ever take offense at receiving a loving gesture in whatever religious form it takes?
Just say "Merry Christmaramahanakwanzmas"
Oh please, They will not feel awkward. No not let the anti-Christmas propaganda get to you.
A Happy Holidays card works for me. My family is a bit sensitive about getting Merry Christmas cards.
As far as saying Merry Christmas, I say it to all the clerks in the stores I go to, regardless of their store policy. Pisses off management. If you see a manager in a store that is promoting happy holiday instead of Merry Christmas, make sure you wish him/her a very merry. :)
I do to. It shows consideration which is, after all, a Christian value.
Just send them a Christmas card; tell them to send you a new years card in September.
I have had many Jewish acquaintances over the years. Some did not mind saying 'Merry Christmas' themselves. If any had a problem, they merely didn't say anything. Not a big deal.