RIBBONS, RIBBONS EVERYWHERE (AND NOT HOLIDAY ONES!)

(sigh)

I think we've gone a little bonkers with these so-called "awareness" ribbons. They're EVERYWHERE -- cars, pins, backpacks, return address labels, ad infinitum. The first I recall seeing these things was years ago when yellow ribbons tied around trees represented support for our troops and support of hostages held in Iran. The yellow ribbon actually has a Biblical reference which we have watered down to our own liking. Since the yellow ribbons of the 80s, ribbons have appeared in a multitude of colors supporting the cause du jour. Most represent awareness for significant diseases, but a few stretch the imagination.

See if you know what ribbons of these colors supposedly signify:

Red/white/blue - patriotism

Pale yellow - spina biffida

Red - HIV; substance abuse prevention

Pink - breast cancer prevention; birth parents/adoption

White - terrorism victims; peace; right to life

Jigsaw of colors - autism

Lavender - general cancer awareness

Green - organ/tissue donation; missing children; the environment

Dark blue - child abuse/domestic violence prevention; free speech; arthritis; water safety

(WATER SAFETY????????????????!!!!!!!!!!)

Pastel pink and blue - SIDS

We're gonna run out of colors.

(sigh)