Seeing Red

Running late again this morning, you pop into Starbucks for a quick pick-me-up. You notice for the first time this year the Christmas blend, which you enjoy drinking, sits festively on the kiosk beside the line to order beverages. You notice the poinsettia-colored cups stacked beside the register. You consider the deep ruby of the coffee paraphernalia displayed on the shelves lining the walls.

You order a coffee. Christmas Blend. You study the the shimmering rose of the coffee bags.

You hand your check card to the so-called barista, who swipes it. You take your coffee, your card and your belongings and turn to leave.

"Excuse me, sir."

You turn, "Yes?"

"Your card didn't go through."

You think, "That's strange." as you hand her a bill with some embarassment. You take your change and go.

You check your bank account online. You notice $900 in charges you didn't make. You swear silently, as you hear yourself pleading to the bank's representative at the other end of the line, "...but, I've never even been to Canada." You discover your check card has been cancelled.

You think, "Happy Holidays, everyone."