Black Friday 2011
However, the last few years, the store opening times have gotten earlier and earlier, and it got less and less fun. This year, enough is enough. We're not shopping today, even to go to the grocery store. We may shop at some point tomorrow, but not anywhere that was open on Thanksgiving. We're not alone in this pledge.
Settle down. That's not the point of my post today.
I certainly share the disgust that American consumerism has led to retail stores taking Thanksgiving and family time away from their employees. However, let's not forget about those workers who tirelessly and selflessly serve us 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, including holidays.
By all means, bemoan the plight of the retail worker. Fight back against consumerism. But also, take a moment to give thanks for those not with their families today because they are
taking care of the sick,
keeping us safe,
taking care of people who don't have anyone to spend the holidays with, answering the phone at a 24-hour call center, or filling up our gas tanks as we hit the road to visit Grandma.
And please, give a special thanks for those who are extra far away from their families today because they are protecting our freedom.
Are you looking for a way to go beyond boycotting Black Friday?
- Take a plate of food to that security guard or gas station attendant you talk to every week.
- Write a letter of thanks to your local police or fire department or write a note on the department's Facebook page.
- Drop by the hospital with some desserts for those hard working doctors and nurses.
- Write a letter to a currently deployed service member or wounded warrior.
At the very least, as you are sitting down with your families today, say a prayer of thanks for all of those working today and tomorrow, regardless of occupation.
Happy Thanksgiving!
