Afterglow or aftermath?

"Black Friday" sounds so ominous, like a disaster movie. And "Cyber Monday" seems like it should be a marauding video game. And with the horrific tragedy at WalMart in New York where impatient crowds trampled a security guard whose only crime was opening a door for them, maybe the concept of a shopping vigilante is not too far from reality. We are in tough economic times, and holiday shoppers are hungry for a bargain, but I have to wonder if retailers are feeding into this frenzy with the pre-dawn shopping extravaganzas and limited offers that are designed to turn consumers into sharks. Let's not forget what the holidays are really about. It is a time to celebrate the spirit of giving, one that has nothing to do with cheap televisions, laptops, and gaming systems. It's about giving of yourself, not your cash reserves. This season, please stop and take the time to do something kind for someone who will truly appreciate it. Donate a gift to Toys for Tots or your local shelter for victims of domestic abuse. Take some pet food to the humane society in your area. Spend an hour at a nursing home reminding the residents that someone cares. In the words of my beloved Linus, "That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown!"