Time to Shove, Time to Glare

Christmas, Christmas time is here
Time for joy and time for cheer

Those are the words sung by those loveable rodents who like to lie! Joy and Cheer this time of year? I think not. It should say something about pushing and shoving and fighting for a parking spot. Those words may have rung true when the song was originally released in 1957 but after 50 years things have changed. People leave their warm beds with a sunny disposition to do their shopping but by the time they have circled a parking lot for the ump-teenth time rage is coursing through their veins. When they finally make it into the mall they have to get through huge crowds, wait in long lines, deal with rude, exhausted sales associates, inconsiderate shoppers, and breaking the bank.

This is no longer a joyous season. It’s a hassle. People are stretched thin with obligations. We have to go to everybody’s party plus plan your own as well as go shopping, wrap gifts, do charity, and be jolly. It just doesn’t happen. By the time the season is over you need a vacation but that won’t be happening because you have spent all your money on gifts for people you don’t like just so you won’t be rude.

What makes it even worse is the mass hysteria for specific gifts. Remember when Cabbage Patch Kids came out? Or Tickle Me Elmo? Or, more recently, the WII? This is a problem that is perpetuated by international companies who under-produce and over-market products. All of a sudden everyone wants one and no one can get one. People push, claw, and scratch to get the coveted item. It is simply crazy. And here’s proof.

This year I have decided to forgo the crazy hustle and bustle. I do research online, go shopping at off hours, and avoid the malls on the weekend like the plague. I think this has really helped. Online it is easy to find exactly what you want, compare products, and search availability. It is then easy to take this info and on lunch make a quick run here or there to get what you need. Even though I usually despise Wal-Mart I have taken advantage of some stores being open 24 hours. I show up at 1am and meander about finding what I need. There is no pushing, shoving, or yelling but it can be hella hard to get someone to help you.

Some people say that the craziness is part of festivities of the holiday. But no, that is just a lie people tell themselves to get through it. I say that is just what it is, craziness, and it should be avoided. I guess you do what you gotta do to make it through the season.

Tra