In the shadow of shoppers I’m hiding in a bookshop, taking a breather. Outside the shop’s door are people everywhere-a children’s dance recital, a concert, big shopping bags hanging from hands, crowds gathered in the fast food heaven food court, credit cards pulled out of wallets, you can almost feel the magnetic pull of the many stores.
In the aisle of the mall are stalls set up. Getting by without being slathered with products, and without dampening the Christmas spirit of the overeager salespeople, requires tact. It’s interesting to observe, while waiting for the elevator, the subtle ways people have of getting their point across. Mostly people shy away, except for teen age girls who tend to try nearly anything, including having their hair straightened-with the newest gadget-in the middle of everything.
At Brookstone a robust-looking young man is taking a nap in a cozy, comfortable chair. How easily he sleeps in the midst of shoppers, seeming to not have a care in the world. Many have a coffee cup in hand. I know the feeling well, it’s as comforting to an adult as carrying Paddington Bear is to a child.
Children everywhere and not much screaming or crying today, except for the overextended ones. What are they feeling as they look up, always having to look up, at everything?
This once a year shopping experience is almost over.
Happy Holidays Everyone.