Christmas is a time for familes. A time for getting together with loved ones. A time to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

For Shops it is a time to open all hours, the busiest time of the year. As an employee of a large supermarket chain I am disgusted with the Christmas arrangements this year. The store is opening on Boxing day, New years day, Christmas eve, and New years eve. Why can the shops not close for a couple of days at this time of year.

Businesses are open 365 days of the year. The only day the supermarket in which I work is closed on christmas day.

I feel that shopworkers are always made to work on these occasions and miss out on the whole christmas experience.

For others it is a time to drink, eat excessively and have a party, there is no thought or consideration given to the religious meaning of this occassion.