THE TOOTH FAIRY LIVES !

We had a customer come into our art gallery the other day and use the "S" word. She turned to her husband, and I distinctly heard her say, "Dear, I think maybe we should try to save some money." Although it was a private conversation not meant for the likes of my ears, I felt compelled to let them both know that saving money is positively un-American and cannot be tolerated in any form whatsoever.

I further personalized the issue by appealing to their patriotism. "If you truly love your country, and I'm sure you do, then you have a moral duty to go further into debt by continuing to buy things you don't need with money you don't have." They stared back at me with a glazed expression, which was a signal for me to continue their education. "Our Federal Government sets a good example for us all and expects every citizen to do his or her part in following its lead."

Having paused in my monologue, I asked them whether they were ready to repent over their use of the word, "saving." "Surely, you must know that the alternative to going deeper into debt is recession or worse, and you certainly don't want to have that on your conscience." I concluded by begging them never to use the "S" word again in public, as it could turn out to be contagious.

The couple did a quick 180 and accelerated out the door, never to be seen again. But I felt good that in some small way I had at least tried to do what I could to keep the myth alive that the economy is thriving, business is great and there is no inflation.

The Tooth Fairy lives !

11/26/2006