I have a confession. I hate, loathe, and despise shopping. I especially hate shopping at this time of the year. I can't stand that Christmas starts the day after Halloween either.
Today a woman in California pepper-sprayed other shoppers, including children, to get an X-Box for sale at half price in the raee for Black Friday items. Staff from the same Walmart store reported injuries from shoppers trampling each other. And the store stayed open afterwards. Insanity.
What the heck are we doing? We're in a recession. So many are out of work and looking to save money. I understand that. However, wouldn't it be better to just downsize Christmas, focusing on time together and a special meal rather than using weapons against each other to get to the bargains first?
We're celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. You know, that Jesus that told us to turn the other cheek? The guy who said if someone asks for your cloak, to give him your tunic as well? The Lord that said that peace makers were blessed? The rabbi who suggested that you treat others as you would have them treat you? The leader who said to consider others better than yourself because ultimately the last shall be first? The one who said not to worry about what you will wear or eat? The one who said that personal possessions were all hay and stubble?
I refuse to support any more of this insanity. I don't care what bargains I get, they aren't worth being pepper sprayed or trampled to death as happened at Walmart last year. Are any of you like minded? I suggest you do, too.
This is the only kind of place that I want to shop in these days.
