November 29, 2008

Black Friday Gone Wrong

I didn’t go shopping on Black Friday. I have no patience when it comes to navigating the throngs of crazy shoppers to grab the latest HOT DEAL! at Target. I get very annoyed with crowds, long lines and chaos. I have enough chaos in my life.

Instead of enduring the pushing and shoving, I stayed home and watched a few episodes of Beverly Hills, 90210. I have the first six seasons on DVD (no, I didn’t buy them all at once, too expensive) and currently I’m viewing Season 5.

It’s hilarious to watch my former favorite show, now, as an adult. Not only do I reminisce the crazy 90s fashions, but I get to laugh at the fact that I swore I would marry Luke Perry when I grew up. Oh, yes I did! I’m not afraid to admit it.

After I got bored with the show I went over to Amazon.com to check out the sales. I found a few things to add to the Christmas wish list, but nothing that I really needed. With the economy as it is, I’m afraid to spend even one dollar on anything that isn’t an absolute must.

Even though I’m not worried about mine or my husband’s job, because we’re finally (somewhat) financially stable, I do realize the future can change in the blink of an eye. Losing my old job last February has taught me a valuable lesson in frugality, and I’ve learned to appreciate things I once took for granted. Also, I don’t feel content about spending money compulsively.

Yesterday, when my parents came to get Dawson for the day, my father told me about the Walmart employee who was trampled to death in Long Island, NY. I’m appalled. Has our society become so greedy, and so focused on consumerism?

It makes me sick to my stomach. Someone died because people no longer give a shit about anyone but themselves. People no longer care about the lives of others. Instead, they worry about getting the newest digital camera, iPod, laptop or what-the-fack-ever at the best prices. Who cares if they kill someone, so long as that present is purchased, gift-wrapped, and placed under the tree!

Is this what it has come to? (Heavenly Father, I hope not, because this is a depressing thought.)

Have we forgotten what Christmas is about? Christmas isn’t about gadgets, toys and electronics. It’s about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. If we’re not celebrating the birth of the Son of God, then what on Earth are we doing?

Now before you get all goofy on me for voicing my opinion, please hear me out. I know that not everyone who goes shopping the day after Thanksgiving is crazy. Many of you are very kind and considerate and would never harm another person over a Black Friday sale.

I’m just sad because it’s become clear to me that the true meaning of Christmas has been lost. It’s time to for us to find it again.

I’m Bringing Christmas Back. Stay Tuned.