What ever happened to gifts from
the heart, when way back in the day,
it wasn't so much about spending,
but family we'd celebrate.

I too sadly miss those good old days.

would that we spent the time to craft these gifts of the heart still
budd

Dear Kathy,

You got it RIGHT. Shopping malls are among the most depressing places to be. I feel more warmth in the Wall Mart store! In fact, the last time I went to Wall Mart the Christmas music belted out the LOVE of JESUS on the loud speakers! How about THAT for HOPE and CHANGE!!! Small shops are still fun to zip around the town to get that old time Christmas feeling. The flea markets are incredible places to find neat gifts and some are Home-made by locals. Very nice! Garage sales can be fun too as many sell last years unopened Christmas gifts. The Christmas spirit is STILL alive for one and all but you will not find it at the MALL. Should I say Maul!!!

Peace, Love and Christmas Blessings,

John Michael

The shopping mall is the new cathedral. Countries that have TV commercials <---The clue, commerce, portraying happiness comes expensively and gift wrapped. Yet the cynic in me can't help thinking that Dickens is the best present that merchants could have wished for. He single handedly has made those who don't give expensive gifts the name "Scrooge" with additional guilt that commerce has been quick to abuse. Thus losing the true message.

Somehow, people seem to have gotten the wrong idea that they can make people happy by giving them material goods and services. Therefore, real contact does not have to be made, saving the embarrassment of failure when it doesn't work out. This is a nice "hands-off" tactic that works well for those with problems on their minds.

Ron

Yes, and the message of Christmas is "peace on earth and good will to all" a universal sentiment that is inclusive of everyone. How can anyone not join in the celebration if only to give thanks for the peace that we have? Well said, Kathy.