(Proverbs 20:14) "It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.

Consumer Reports gives me a good laugh from time to time. Their borderline self-righteousness often gives way to common sin. In their magazine they recommend lying in order to get a bargain. If a business did such a dirty deed it would be raked over Consumer Reports' approved hot coals.

To, sling a "sob story" is to help stores who are looking for "any excuse to give you a deal."

First, one has to believe the lie that businesses are just looking to give discounts rather than stay in business by making a profit. Second, one has to accept that making up a sob story is a truthful way to get a bargain.

(ShopSmart; ConsumerReports, March 2009 www.shopsmartmag.org)