As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods — merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor.
This year will be different. This year, Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift-giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes, there is!
It’s time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese-produced wrapping paper? Everyone — yes, everyone — gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It’s appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement. Who wouldn’t appreciate getting his or her car detailed? Small, American-owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.
Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking down the Benjamins on a Chinese-made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift-receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course. There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants, all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn’t the fancy-eatery sort, what about a half-dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint?
Remember, folks, this isn’t about big national chains — this is about supporting your hometown Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy? Thinking about a heartfelt gift for Mom? Mom would love the services of a local cleaning lady for a day. My computer could use a tune-up, and I know I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.
You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about us, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn’t imagine.
This is the new American Christmas tradition. This is a revolution of caring about each other — and isn’t that what Christmas is about?
But this suggestion sounds silly? During this time of year, when some people recognize the birth of a man (Jesus) who sought peace and brotherhood with the human family, it seems hypocritical to suggest we patriotically favor some products over others. Many of the products we consume are assembled by non-Americans, but are conceived or designed by a team of global developers.
Remember, a man’s allegiance is to those who best support his efforts, whether he is Asian, African, European or Canadian. Also, you may have a greater cognitive affinity with a man on the other side of the earth than you do with your neighbor (I know I do).
It is likely the guy who changes your car oil shops at Walmart.
This country may be too tepid for a political and spiritual revolution.