My Grand Junction Vents on National Humbug Day

For every Scrooge out there, this is your day to shine.

There may be a little bit of Scrooge in all of us, even those of us who will be embracing today's celebration of national Look on the Bright Side Day.  I love to look on the bright side, but, sometimes you just need to vent a little and this is the time to do it.

Ironically, December 21st is also National Humbug Day. How can two completely opposite mindsets be celebrated on the exact same day? But since I'm not the one in charge of the calendar or national celebrations, I'm just going with the flow and express a little humbug.

Now, don't get me wrong. I love the holiday season. I don't consider myself to be a Scrooge in any sense, but if you will allow me to step out of character for just a few moments, there are a few things I would like to get off my chest as Christmas day approaches.

To those who would seek to damage, vandalize, or steal people's Christmas lights and decorations in Grand Junction- bah humbug to you. I think you are despicable. Please go away. May the fleas of a thousand camels infest your pillows.

To those who insisted on smoking while watching the Parade of Lights in downtown Grand Junction and other public gatherings - bah humbug to you. I realize you were in a public place, but a little common sense and courtesy would suggest that subjecting all the people around you to your second-hand smoke is downright rude. C'mon man!

To those who want to take Christ out of Christmas - bah humbug to you. I don't care that you don't celebrate the birth of Jesus, but, the fact remains, He is the reason for the season. Celebrate Christmas in your own way, but please let everyone else celebrate in their own way as well without offense. And if you are one who doesn't celebrate Christmas at all, don't be offended by those who do.

To the vendors who are set up at the kiosks in the center of the Mesa Mall walkways accosting as many people walking by as possible trying to sell them something- bah humbug to you.  I can clearly see you are there, and, believe me, if I want or need your good products or services I will definitely be sure and let you know. I promise. Please don't make me tell you 'no thanks.' That always makes me feel like a Scrooge.

To the Broncos' fans who have abandoned ship, bah humbug to you. I know it's been another tough season, but it's likely your' expectations were simply just too high. It sucks to lose and to have a losing team, but true fans will stay loyal through thick and thin, good times and bad. If you want to be a real Broncos fan, you've got to love them through the wins as well as the losses, the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat, and the hope and promise of better things to come in the new year.

That's my bah humbugs for now. If you have some Grand Junction humbugs to share, please do so. This is the day to let it all out.