Time to reflect

Ok, we are now in December and shopping has gone into first gear. We are being pumped by every means possible by commercials and other advertising material to buy the latest items, the cheapest items or even the crap items that no one would ever think of buying any other time of the year.

And all because it is Christmas!

For many in retail this time of year is the "sink or swim" of the life of the business. If they do badly now, will they survive the next year. If they do well, can they expand somewhere else or provide new products. Us consumers can have a lot to say to these business especially at this time of year.

But hold on. Are we forgetting one small item. The PC gang want to change the name of the Christmas holidays to "winterfall" Others want to stop carol singing or schools stopping the children from Nativity plays. To these - Look at the word CHRISTmas. The whole reason for the celebration and the reason we give gifts to others is the story of the birth of Jesus.

Without getting too religious on the matter it is a matter of principle. While I totally except other religions and beliefs, it is a Christians belief that this time of year is very special. Many other people who might not enter a church for the whole year, will visit one of the Christmas period. Why? Do they feel guilty about something or is it that no matter what people say or believe, the real story behind Christmas and why we do certain things all lies with the birth of a child.

The three kings bought gifts - presents to a new born child. They didn't go down to the local outlet to spend well over what they could afford on the latest have gadget. This could go on and on.

In summery, while respecting the fact that Christmas is a make or break time in retail. Retail should show some respect in the way they advertise products. Parents are being pressurised into having to buy products well out their price range. That is not what Christmas is about. Christmas is about being together, sharing gifts (for which are affordable) and peace. Lets try and keep it this way.