Consumerism has consumed the day of Thanksgiving. What used to be a holiday of gratitude, family, traditions and feasting with those you love most has now been gobbled up by black … well all week long.
Thanksgiving originated back in 1621 when colonists at Plymouth and Wampanoag Natives shared a harvest meal together. It is their celebration of friendship and gratitude that we still celebrate today on the fourth Thursday of every November.
Thanksgiving used to to be known as a National Holiday where Americans come together, show gratitude, gather with loved ones and attempt to eat their weight in turkey, potatoes, cranberries, stuffing and pie.
However, beginning in the 1960’s, the day after Thanksgiving began to be known nationwide as “Black Friday.” Stores offer merchandise at discounted rates – through the years creating a consumer frenzy seeping into the holiday earlier and earlier. Eventually, Black Friday has consumed the entire holiday turning it into a day of greed rather than gratitude.
The University Journal editorial staff believes that, while savings, traditions and the inevitable rush of frenzied shopping are fine and fun; family, friends and remembrance of the holiday are most important.
Before the tsunami of consumerism sets in this Thanksgiving, let’s be numbered with those that show gratitude. Let’s take the time to interact with family, take account of blessings and enjoy a feast without panicking over deals we may miss, put down the phone filled with quickest routes and easy scan coupons.
The Journal wishes SUU a safe and happy Thanksgiving. If you have any comments or ideas about “Is Thanksgiving Gone For Good,” send a letter to the editor to opinion@suunews.com.
Story by
Savannah Palmer
and University Journal Editorial Board
opinion@suunews.com
