Morals
Yesterday I was about to go into a newsagent, when a couple of kids stopped me just outside. If they gave me the money, would I go in and buy them a packet of cigarettes?
"Sorry, no," I replied.
It's a moral thing - I'm not buying their cigarettes for them. They're under-age, and I'm not helping them out.
The same thought came today, when, in response to a request for present ideas, someone suggested buying the Mamma Mia DVD as a Christmas gift (no names - no pack drill).
Just like I'm not going to help feed some youths' nicotine addiction, I'm not going to support someone's terrible taste in celluloid - even if it's ironic.
I have to have standards. I'd feel dirty just buying a copy. I'd have to explain to the shop assistant that it wasn't for me. I'm feeling a cold shiver down my back just typing these words, and thinking about quite how appalling the film might be.
When I give a gift, however much the recipient desires the gift or has asked for it, the fact that I've given it is a reflection of me and my tastes.
So no Mamma Mia DVDs, no Mariah Carey CDs, no Martina Cole novels, and so on.
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Underage smoking compared with buying a Mamma Mia DVD. Outstanding.
Adam, I know it won't surprise you to find me defending Mamma Mia... but have you actually seen it?
David,
No, I haven't.
And do you know what? I never will!
I've heard the plot synopsis, and while I like a good Abba song as much as the next person, I rather prefer Abba singing their own songs.
On the basis that I have a finite number of hours left in my life, I'm not giving two over to Mamma Mia.
Good man for having the decency to resist those with little taste of their own. Watching Mariah on last night's American Music Awards is enough to convince me that you're providing a invaluable public service sir.