The Commercialization of Life

I know that everyone talks about how Christmas, or the holiday season, is just about pushing merchandise. I've had a lot of patients talk about how Thanksgiving is "overlooked". The best reason I've heard is that Turkey day just doesn't sell. Makes sense, if you think about it for a minute.
I've been paying attention lately, and it seems like people and things are only worth how much they can be marketed. That holiday, that celebrity, that thing...the mass market machine that America has become squeezes every last drop (or cent) it can get, and then throws it away for the next thing. Before I get too critical and blame all of this on "the man" and Wal-Mart, I find that I do just this same thing on an all-too-regular basis. I'll keep my thoughts in the first person, but I think we all can relate.
I have an awful habit of looking at situations, things, and (ashamedly so) people as what they can do for me. I am not by nature a person who genuinely loves others. I (without fail) look out for my best interests, even when those interest are not in jeopardy. Not that I'm going to blame this on society, as everyone still has a free will to make their own choices, but it just seems to be a common theme among Americans.
I'm hoping to make more than just a New Years resolution to enjoy life. To not always be looking for more. To look for opportunities to bless others, especially when they can't return the favor. To be content. To be at peace in the midst of it all.