Tis’ the Season?

Consider these headlines from Thanksgiving weekend:

Crazed Shoppers Stampede at Target
Marine Stabbed at Best Buy
Mall Food Court Placed on Lockdown
Shopper Arrested After Cutting In Line
Woman Busted After Gun Threat At Toy Store

This year Black Friday started at 10pm the night before at Toys “R” Us. The “official” start was later at Wal-Mart (midnight), followed by virtually every other store in the country. Parking lots were so full they were a stylistic blend of commuter parking, yard sale shopping, and used car sales.

Thankfully, all of this doesn’t actually symbolize the reason for the season.

We have an opportunity to be more reflective, to consider the relationships that sustain us, the things that bring joy into our lives, and the opportunities to be thankful for. As we look beyond the images of roasted turkeys and foil-wrapped presents, it is obvious we have more important concerns.

Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, take time to reflect not just what’s on sale, but on what we have and hold dear. Only then can we really appreciate the real reason for the season.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Robert Ferguson, President

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