Journals

         OK, I'll admit it.   I broke down and abandoned my short-lived boycott of McDonald’s everywhere yesterday.   For one reason and one reason only: The Monopoly game is back, and along with it, your God-given right to win cash and prizes just for eating high-calorie fast food.   You may feel sick to your stomach afterwards, but you might very well be one piece closer to a large sum of money.   In the Monopoly Man, short as he is, the Golden Arches Corporation has found the perfect way to capitalize on the hungry masses’ appetite for winning free stuff, even if it’s just another 540 calorie Big Mac.   I would love to know how much business spikes for Mickey D’s during Monopoly madness.   If you thought it was sheer insanity before, try walking into your local McDonald’s now.              I mention this not just for your benefit, but as an excuse for my impulses, to prove I’m not the only one craving the all-to-alluring 1 in 100 million chance to be the next Big Winner.   I can’t even explain it.   For some reason I am compelled to addictively purchase McDonald’s value meals solely for the opportunity to peal away a small Monopoly game piece and see if I have instantly won.   My first visit back garnered me a Park Place, which is half-way to a Million, but there are only 3, count ‘em 3, Boardwalk game pieces printed.   I also won a free small soft drink or iced coffee.   But who I am kidding?   I’ve been playing this game for years.   I don’t stand a chance.   Knowing this, I will continue to consume anything with a game piece on it until the Monopoly game is no more.   While I’m at it, I may as well ask your assistance in my latest fast-food related poll.