When You Think About It: Gluttony as an American Value

Words and photo by F LoBuono

Every 4th of July we celebrate America and what we stand for - freedom, justice, equality - for all. At least that's the idea. But, over the course of time, we use the day less and less to reflect on our ideals and more and more as an excuse for just another party.

One way, I believe, this malaise is demonstrated most clearly is with the annual Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Contest at Nathan's. I know - it's harmless fun - why be a curmudgeon - it's a tradition, etc.

Really?

To me, it's the worst kind of tradition. Why would anyone choose to honor GLUTTONY as an American value? Do you really enjoy watching someone slam a tube steak of questionable substance in their face and then wash it down with gallons of water until the crap is spewing out of their noses???? And, then we reward them with fame and fortune? Some contestants even consider themselves "professional competitive eaters", with the legendary Joey Chestnut being the gold standard.

Really?

So, WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT IT, this is an American value? Perhaps, it might be to someone like Donald Trump whose thirst for all things garish is unquenchable. His bombast is perfect for that event. In fact, I can actually visualize him as the MC. It fits perfectly within his mantra of MORE IS BETTER - always. It's just another example of how America is losing its soul.

That is all . . .