How is it possible that we have become so politically correct in this country that there is actually a debate and hesitation about wishing someone "Merry Christmas"? For as long as I have been alive, Christmas has been a season of love, of thankfulness, of family, and joy. It is a time that the whole country stops and reflects on the many blessings we are so lucky to have. It is a time when we are even more sensitive to the needs of others, and of helping those in need.

Yes, Christmas is the holiday Christians celebrate the birth of their savior Jesus Christ. But why does the notion of a savior who came to the world to show eternal love and forgiveness for everyone have to be offensive? Can't we all just enjoy that message without being offended by its attachment to Christian ideology?

As for me, I learn from all religions, and any time I can draw some meaningful wisdom from the various faith traditions, something that makes me a better human being, than I am all for it. So when you see me this Christmas and I wish you a Merry Christmas, remember that I am wishing you love, peace, and hope for you and your family.

Make a big difference in a child's life.
Throughout the Holiday Season, Stevens & Stevens Deli is serving as a collection point for the Center for Family Resource Development. This U of L Kent School program recently alerted me to the needs of more than 700 children in grades K-5 who attend McFerran Preparatory Academy.

I recently toured this school and I can tell you that these kids have absolutely nothing. They need underwear, hats, gloves, coats, clothes, toys - you name it, they need it. McFerran's teachers and its Principal Carol Miller are on the front lines and giving these kids no-strings attached love and affection. But these kids could use your help.

To help the Principal Miller and the Center for Family Development provide support to these kids, we're encouraging our customers to drop off anything you can spare, from clothes to toys - gently used or new - for kids in the K-5 age range. In exchange for your donation, we'll give you a FREE bowl of our piping hot, good for the soul, Chicken Soup.

Let's break bread together and make this a great holiday for these kids in need.

With LOVE, PEACE and JOY.
Mark Stevens

Meet ... Harold White
AKA: "H2"
Position & Duties: 6th man
How long? 13 years in the deli, 25 with the family
Likely to be found: Making everything in the deli, from soup to nuts
What do you like most about your job? My co-workers and the customers
Favorite Stevens & Stevens grub: Yellow Submarine
Favorite Stevens & Stevens salad: Play It Again Sam
Favorite band: Rodger
Pickles -- love 'em or hate 'em? Love 'em
Currently reading: Popular Science, ESPN News
LEO or Velocity? LEO
How are you keeping Louisville weird? By being a sage for the youth of today
Proudest moment: My son Shaun going to collage to Virginia Tech. My baby!
Favorite Movie: Contact
Hobbie: Motorcycles
Favorite Quote: I'm glad to be alive and well!