I received this fabulous email just now, and I hope it at least gives you something to think about. So I'm demanding you read it. It's copy/pasted below my drivel.
I don't feel as though common sense is used at the holiday season, and I haven't for many years. This email, to me, for the most part, puts some important things in their proper perspective.
Get toys and clothes for the children, of course, and revel in the joy.
Beyond that, I think most Americans are sheep, and slaves to Madison Avenue's allure, financed by big business's advertising dollars, and subconsciously fed to you, not just children, on video screens ad infinitum. Just freakin stop it.
Forget Hallmark and get an oil change gift certificate from a local garage owned by an American. Something like that helps everyone, and God knows we all need help.
Anyway, here it is.
Some great ideas Birth of a New Tradition
As the holidays approach, the giant overseas factories are kicking into high
gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -
merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This
year could/should be different. This year, Americans can give the gift of genuine
concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift
giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands.
Yes there is!
It's time to think outside the box, everyone. Who says a gift needs to fit in
a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?
Everyone gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates
from your local American hair salon or barber?
Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some
health improvement.
Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned
detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a
book of gift certificates.
How about a movie?
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down
big bucks on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift
receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or
driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
There are a many owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift
certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about
a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this
isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town
Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or
motorcycle, done at a shop run by an American working guy/gal?
Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would love the services of a
local cleaning lady for a day.
My computer could use a tune-up, and I know I can find some young guy who is
struggling to keep his repair business running.
OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local arts and crafts people spin
their own wool and knit it into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery
and beautiful wooden boxes.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave
your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at
your hometown theatre.
Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, friends, do you really need to buy another hundred Chinese
lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of lights, about
fifty cents stays in the community. Instead, leave the mailman, trash guy
or babysitter a nice big tip.
You see, the holidays are no longer about draining American pockets so that
China can build another glittering city. It's now about caring about the
US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow
their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our
communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine.
THIS is the new American holiday tradition.
This is a revolution of caring about each other,
and isn't that something we can celebrate?
I just received this email from a friend and I will be sending it to EVERYONE I know!
This is an EXCELLENT idea and indeed is what Christmas is TRULY about!
If you agree PLEASE pass this on to EVERYONE you know!
