-- DAVE LEE, Kennewick

We have become such a nation of "takers" rather than "givers." It is no wonder shoppers fall for merchants' appeal of "buy one, get one free" or, shop early and get 90 percent off!

Just like the recent election, where people voted for a "handout" administration, shoppers follow the same path.

It is remarkable how many folks actually think they are getting a good deal. It is even more remarkable of how many fall for the subliminal thought, "if you don't buy it now, it won't be there by the time Christmas rolls around."

Yep, folks are like sheep being led to a slaughter when it comes to Black Friday. Everyone spending money they don't have, creating their own fiscal cliffs.

Personally, I avoid Black Friday and the subsequent weeks like the Black Plague.

May God forgive us for the commercialization of his Son's birth.