An Interesting & More Real Christmas

If your local newspapers are correct, it would appear that the recent financial turmoil has changed the way in which many people have viewed Christmas in 2008. Everyone knows that Christmas is overly commercialized and it is difficult not to get caught up in the hype and frenzy. But recent reports appear to indicate that spending will be down this year, and that many people will be looking less at the material aspects that typically surrounds the holiday, and more toward the important aspects of Christmas such as spending time with family, giving gifts with meaning (i.e. making them) and still giving to those who are less fortunate as well as donating their time. Shelters and food banks in my hometown of Toronto have been turning volunteers away, as they already have more than they need. Some charities have noticed an increase of people making donations in others' names in lieu of giving them a Christmas gift.

Perhaps this year and possibly 2009 (if economic predictions hold true) will build the foundation away from rampant consumerism and materialism and with future holiday seasons remaining closer towards the true spirit of Christmas. That is my Christmas wish this year.

One Sector That's Thriving in These Thrifty Times

When bad news prevails throughout the economy, it's sometimes hard to find sectors that are thriving. The one I did find was the thrift store sector which encompasses those business that sell second-hand goods, sell items on consignment and even sell gently-used high-end, brand name clothing. I'm happy to see this sector thrive for a number of reasons:

1) It reduces waste by having more people recycle their unwanted clothing, and curbs rampant conspicuous consumption
2) Often donations and their subsequent sale of unwanted clothing helps support charities such as Goodwill and Salvation Army to provide important social programs in the community

3) More people start to realize that they can buy almost any type of item at far less than retail prices

4) It reduces the temptation to adopt a 'keeping up with the Jones' mentality

5) Greater adoption of buying used items, starts to change the stigma associated with thrift and second-hand stores

So, for me, there is a silver lining to the dark cloud sitting ominously over us.