Today at work I overheard somebody bragging about how they aren't getting much for their kids for Christmas so that they can teach them what's "really important". They then casually mentioned that they are currently broke. Are the two related? Yes! It irritates me that somebody would use a "lesson" as a cover for their lack of money. But I digress…
The real thing that bugged me was the kid not getting much for Christmas. Now, I'm not the materialistic type, in fact my favorite part of Christmas is buying the presents for people, but Christmas is supposed to be a magical time for kids. How can you top the look of pure joy on a kid's face when they open that big present they've been wanting? That's something the kid will remember FOREVER. And some people want to take that away for some ill-conceived lesson? Let me tell you, the lesson ISN'T that presents aren't important. The lesson is one of the following three things:
1- Your mom and/or dad are broke and are being jerks to cover it up.
2- Your mom and/or dad have been so destroyed by the misery in their life that they would gladly sacrifice your Christmas in order to feel better about themselves.
3- Your mom and/or dad are religious nuts who have been conned by the leaders of their congregation into ruining your Christmas.
Sorry about the rant, but you don't mess with Christmas.
