Even the Grinch realized that Christmas wasn't about consumerism. It's not about all the fancy things you can buy and how much you can spend. Yet it seems the amount of money spent just keeps climbing. I remember reading an article which stated that over 500 billion dollars was spent shopping for Christmas presents in December in the USA. It also said 60% of Americans incurred credit card debt and 78% of people wished the holiday wasn't so materialistic.
If were all so uncomfortable with making all of these purchases and going into debt over them well we watch our neighbours in need struggle for things like fresh water why do we keep doing it?
Consumerism can be a devastating psychological addiction that saps our financial resources, well-being, and hope. In our attempt to fill a void that stems from a generally hopeless life, consumerism is a way for many to seek temporary fulfillment and joy. It is what experts like to call extrinsic motivation and it reaches its peak during Christmas season.
by Andrian Iliopoulos
I agree with Andrian 100% it's disgusting what consumerism does to us all. I really think we need to step away from the excessive shopping and get back to the family, friends, meals and just spend quality time together. That's what I think Christmas is about.
”In the end, money isn’t what we’re after . . . is it? What we’re really after are the feelings, the emotions, we think money can create: that feeling of empowerment, of freedom, of security, of helping those we love and those in need, of having a choice, and of feeling alive.”
By Tony Robbin
I wish you wonderful holidays and hope that you all can enjoy time with you loved ones.