Darkened storefronts, sparse merchandise, even the busy Apple store was quiet yesterday at the mall. True, it was a rainy Tuesday more than two weeks away from the big day, but even a few years ago it would have been bustling. Not for the first time I ask myself … where have all the people gone? 

They’re in their homes, collecting Amazon deliveries. While in the sad cavernous halls poor souls wander, looking for candles or purses or calendars, strolling through clouds of perfume and the scent of cinnamon rolls, listening to yet another rendition of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.”.

I’ve never been a mall lover, always held them responsible for the death of downtowns, but yesterday’s trip made me feel sorry for them — and for us.