On November 1, the day after Halloween, I found myself in Target picking up a few household items. As I browsed the toothpaste aisle hunting for the best deal, I subconsciously began humming along to the background music. By the time I placed my toothpaste in the little red shopping basket, I realized that the smooth, rich voice of Michael Bublé had enticed me to quietly sing along with his jazzy rendition of â??Santa Claus is Coming to Town.â?? Suddenly, a feeling rushed over me. All the tacky red bows and cheap plastic wreaths hanging from the steel ceiling beams suddenly shined bright. I felt slightly ashamed and tried to deny it. But in my heart, I knew. I had received the â??Christmas spirit.â??
Trying to control the sudden urge to buy useless things, I made my way as quickly as possible through the â??10 Items or Lessâ?? line. I rushed through the parking lot, and cranked my car. As I drove away from the Target, I shook my head. Partly at Target for their ridiculously early Christmas music and decorations. Partly at myself for being genuinely moved by Targetâ??s slick money-making ploy. â??Seriously?!,â? I said to myself. â??Itâ??s not even Thanksgiving yet!â?
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