We are a nation of unrepentant shopaholics, egged on by big business.  There is no other nation that designates two shopping days as the bellwethers for a strong economy. 

Black Friday follows Thankful Thursday, the day we humbly give thanks for the important things in life — health, happiness, love, family and friends.  Now that we are thankful for all these people, we get to stampede over them for the best bargains that are only available on Black Friday.

Then came Cyber Monday.  The day after the long weekend that started with Thankful Thursday, roared on into Black Friday and culminated in Remorseful Saturday and Sunday.  Why remorseful?  Well, after getting bruised kicking and pushing other people out of the way for the bargains on Black Friday, we realize that we could maybe get better bargains if only we waited until Cyber Monday to shop from the comfort of our homes. 

Why do we engage in this frenzy?  Oh, yeah, it is for the gift-giving that has overtaken a religious holiday where those who believe in Jesus mark his birth and his message of peace on earth, good will to all.  And the fat guy in the red suit with all the gifts for a society that wants everything immediately.  The holiday is about him, too.