Allen - We need parades in life. Most of the people at those parades do many good things in their other time. Why do you assume they don't? I know you will not answer this, but atleast think about it :-)

Allen, I couldn't disagree with you more. In these hard times, somethimes people just need a reprieve from the day to day stresses. Also, is cultural entertainment like spending 2 hours seeing the nutcracker, going to an art gallery or going to see a symphany a waste of time? Do we really spend too much time on entertainment? The restaurants, theaters, department stores, etc. are taking a financial hit because people cannot afford to "waste time" on entertainment. If the parade can give people a little enjoyment in these times of financial woes then let them have it. If you think it's a waste of your time, then don't go.

Allen - I must agree with you, atleast in part, that this culture we live in is way too egocentric. Perhaps you see it also and are venting your frustration. I think it is important not to swing too far in the other direction so that a person becomes bitter, for that is perhaps more damaging than being self-centered. Peace to you, Allen

Get lost, loser. I refuse to feel guilty for anything I've earned. What a treat you must be at family gatherings.

No more the drudge and idler, ten that toil where one reposes,

But a sharing of life's glories: Bread and roses, bread and roses.

Our lives shall not be sweated from birth until life closes;

Hearts starve as well as bodies; bread and roses, bread and roses

- James Oppenheim, /Mimi Fariña

I like COD....

Yes, we as a culture spend far too much time in front of "screens". But spending time at a local parade with friends and other people in your community is one of the best and most productive things a person can do.

Step away from the bitter beer and taste the fine wine of real life, Allen. :)

scrooge lives on

lonewolf, i have cod, but play bf2142 everyday on line.