Most people believe that Christmas is, as the song suggests, “the most wonderful time of the year.” But is it really? Yes, the winter season is comprised of season’s greetings, tidings of joy, and goodwill towards men, but what about the things that lie beneath it all? Is everything about this season really as genuinely true and heartfelt as it’s made out to be?

Now, I am in no way trying to put down this holiday. A time given to relax before starting the new year is something we all need. And a day set aside to shower your loved ones with gifts can mean a lot when you give the right things. So,it’s not that I have anything against the season. What I am against are the things people do and say while this holiday is going on.

It’s great when you can buy new things for the ones you care about. It’s a way to show them that you’re not some miserable schmuck who criticizes people way too often. What’s not great is deeming it suitable to wake someone up at five in the morning to ask them to drive you to Toys R Us. This is not a smart thing to do, nor is it safe. Personally, I don’t care how many stores there are that have things on sale that early in the morning. I say that we make a rule that states that during the holidays, unless there is fire, famine, or war, do not wake someone up before 11 A.M.

Being the traditional mall-rat that I am, I don’t like the idea of seeing rampaging soccer moms blowing from store to store, purchasing everything that isn’t nailed down simply because it might be on sale. Shopping store sales are nothing but a pathetic excuse to try and save money while figuring out just how much useless junk you can fit in one minivan. What is the point? And don’t argue about saving money. Yes, I am fully aware that you might be able to save five bucks, but where is the nearest fast food restaurant? Odds are, that’s where those five bucks are going.

I’m glad stores can decrease their prices long enough for someone to realize that they might be able to purchase something. The economy is thriving and I couldn’t be happier. Well, I could, but that’s a different story. So, until next time, I’m Matt Hattaway … and you’re not.