Dear little stores—I go to you because I love you, but I don't buy your stuff because of your guilt trip and fees. Please understand that I dislike the large chains as much as you do. However, let me explain what your customers must go through when we try to support your store.

First, all your merchandise is marked up. Second, you guilt us with bunch of notes near the register about how you're getting screwed by banks' fees. And, finally, you sigh in disdain when we try to pay with a credit card.

I can cope with the mark-ups and even the ATM surcharge. However, the guilt trip is the last straw. Sorry, but I'm going to Freddys. They suck, but at least they don't make me feel bad.