sheesh... what a long ass rant. it seems like you are pissed and just need something to b*tch about.
the holidays aren't so bad... I am the first in my family to be exposed to american culture my whole life so its kind of different fot me.... we dont really do christmas, they have know idea was thanksgiving is about (although no one really does, american or not)... the holidays do suck in their own way, but i just see them as an excuse to eat lots of good food with friends and family, get off work/school, and get drunk as ****. thats enough to make it worth it right there. gotta look for the good side of the holidays or u'll get caught up in the stress of it all. drink a beer and relax!
i see it this way... i'd rather be stuck in traffic on lenox rd. than be stuck in tsunami-ravaged india begging for food this time of year.