Rev. Billy and the Stop Shopping Gospel Choir

See the Rev. Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping website

It's Black Friday and I am observing Buy Nothing Day 2008. Well, sort of. I went to a local Mom & Pop grocery store to get provisions for a small gathering of friends who will be dining at our home this evening.

This year retail sales during the holiday period are expected to be down and some say this season is all ready over. Chains have begun to liquidate a massive inventory of stuff that will not sell this holiday season. It's tricky. On the one hand, the economy will benefit if retail sales are up and stuff we don't need is moving out the doors and into our overcrowded homes. On the other hand, consumers who are already strapped will get themselves deeper in a hole and have more stuff that brings very little spiritual or emotional satisfaction.

There is a middle ground.

Choose to approach this holiday season from a mindset of ABUNDANCE! Abundant friends, family, love. When we run around buying every gadget in sight we are operating from a sense of scarcity. Do that, and yes, in late December when the buzz is gone you will definitely feel the scarcity.

The more stuff we crowd our lives with that we don't need, the clutter, isn't good for us. But, how can we get money moving through the economy, still give and receive gifts, and stay within our budget? It is easy. I urge you to consider the following ideas:

-Make holiday gifts such as homemade cookies and granola.
-Homemade candles.
-Support local, family-owned businesses.
-Support local artists and artisans.
-Embrace that less is more.
-Give in service.

Today I got some cash moving in the community, supported a local store that may feel the sting from the biggies, and will sit around the table breaking bread with people whose laughter raises my consciousness, lifts my spirit, and if there is any hangover it will be from an extra glass of Merlot shared with others, not from a 29%interest rate.

Have an ectoplasmic day!