Occupied by Greed

What has caused us to become entangled in the mess we're all in today with all it's uncertainty? Simply put...our greed. We need to be the biggest, and the best. Our focus is on us--the me, myself and I. Our quest for things has gone beyond need, demanding more goods and services and not nicely, as we have become the selfish brats that no-one can handle. We want and we're going to get, no matter who it hurts or what it costs. We infact, do not care how much it costs and our society is going to suffer as a result. Parents are using new language, like "use your words". Children do not know how to converse anymore as they are consumed with activity. They become lonely in their own little world, a world of consumerism, where we are greedy especially with our time. More and more we e-mail to get answers back, so we won't have to deal with questions from someone else. Certainly, we do not want to make it "personal," see into their eyes and hear their voice. People want to know what is wrong today? Are we a generation of "real" people, or have we become an unfeeling, busy, distant uncaring lot. I read a Christmas Card that suggested that our faith is in question if we do not say "Merry Christmas" and that we are in a "war on Christmas". That is the most ridiculous statement that I've ever heard. I don't think my "faith" is that shallow. It was never about the "tree" in our house growing up. We knew all about St. Nicholas, and Christmas came whether we had symbols or not. It wasn't about things--it was about each other and being together. One thing is true, your kids will learn from you. Good and bad. The trees will be up and the homes will be beautifully decked out and yes, presents will be under the tree. But, there is much more to it. Will you be with your family? Will you remember your friends? Will it be important to bring your children to worship God on Christmas, the reason for the season in the first place. It is, in the end, all about what is in your heart. You can have everything, but without "love" you might as well have nothing. It was predicted that the hearts of many will grow cold. Are we there yet? Or, like Scrooge, will we be given another chance before it's too late. Those who are making a big deal about denying us "Christmas," I say, don't hold your breath.