Back in elementary school, I was taught that Thanksgiving was about being thankful for everything that you had in your life. I was taught that it was about many people coming together and celebrating new friendship, surrounded by a giant table of delicious food. As I look back, I wish I could say that nothing of that tradition has changed, but certainly in America today we seem to have forgotten what elementary school tried so hard to teach us. Now, Thanksgiving is all about Black Friday shopping.
I'm not trying to say that all hope is lost or that Thanksgiving has lost all meaning of importance, but it's just gained some new, not-so-great traditions. Black Friday is not necessarily a bad thing, in fact, it's a genius way to make as much money as possible if you're the big CEO behind the company because Christmas really is right around the corner from Thanksgiving, but it's beginning to cut into the true meaning of this wonderful holiday and that is so upsetting.
Consumerism has consumed us as a nation, but I will not let it swallow our Thanksgiving traditions whole. We must remind ourselves what Thanksgiving is all about, and that's what I'm here for. It's not about going out and buying the new Apple Watch before Black Friday even begins, it's about spending time with your family and closest friends. It's about giving thanks for all that you have up to that point. Thanksgiving is so much more than a silly electronic.
People forget that, despite Black Friday trailing behind it, Thanksgiving is one of the most relaxing holidays. Sure, you have to remember to bring something edible to the shindig, and if you're the host, I can understand you're under stress to get things in order at your home, but otherwise, I would say it's very laid back. All you have to do is gather around a giant table and then dive straight into the meal.
Giving thanks is still very important and I think everyone should remember to do so. Thanksgiving should not be the only time this is done, but it's an excuse to reminisce what you were thankful for that past year and share it with your closest colleagues. It's a time to show appreciation for everyone and everything that they've done, without having to go out and buy anything.
Overall, we cannot let Black Friday or any type of consumerism take over our lives and most precious holidays. It is important that we stick to tradition while creating new ones, but we can't forget what that holiday is all about. It is important to remain true to the real meaning of Thanksgiving and save Black Friday for Friday.
