Let Them Shop

News flash! People shop on Black Friday/ Thursday because it is fun, and they like it. Most of them are buying things for other people, and they're doing it with friends and family. Who am I to say that this is not how those people make memories and celebrate their gratitude?

And if they are buying for themselves, maybe they deserve it! I skimp and save all year to make sure my family members have the things that they need. Why not let me go buy myself a new pair boots once a year?

The kind of people who stand in line and push and shove and holler when they finally get the item, they do it because they like it. So let them! Not everyone has generations of family who can hang out with them on one specific day every year. Many people save up time to get home for Christmas, and it's not about Thanksgiving. They don't have the luxury to celebrate both holidays. Starting your Christmas shopping early might be a way to show your family and friends you love them and that you're preparing for them. You want to get something for everyone, and you have to do it in your own way so you can make ends meet. I never have enough money, and maybe Black Friday is my only way to make it work. There are so many variables. We can't know what's in people's hearts and why they do something or why they like something. But for me it is so much more peaceful to seek the joy in why they do the things they do. Celebrate with them! You want to shop on Thanksgiving? Great! Have an amazing time! I hope you're with your family and friends or thinking about them or sacrificing for them. Maybe you're finally buying something for yourself. Wonderful! Enjoy every minute.

Be smart about your shopping. Try to beat the system. And remember that nothing is a deal unless it is at least 30% off. And realistically if you don't need a new TV, you could probably stay home and shop Friday or online. Most of the stores with door busters do not have any other sales on Black Friday or Thursday. So if you love shopping and want to hang out in the crazy fun, go for it! But if it's more fun to stay home with family and friends and play dominoes, live it up. You probably won't miss much. I still haven't decided what I'm going to do -- after the first few stores on Friday morning. More time with the kids? Yoga? More shopping? We'll see.

Happy Thanksgiving!