Is Thanksgiving Losing The Battle Against Consumerism?
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Thanksgiving has a unique place in my heart, and I enjoy its simplicity. It is a celebration that does not necessitate elaborate décor or expensive gifts. Historically, Thanksgiving has been protected from the clutches of commercialization. What could be more authentic than getting together with loved ones to show gratitude?
However, the tides are turning. Consumerism is quietly sneaking into Thanksgiving. Aside from the pandemic-induced shutdowns, shops have persistently extended their hours, putting Black Friday ahead of the sacred holiday of Thanksgiving. Profit margins are dominant.
It’s distressing to see Thanksgiving sidelined for profit. How many of us fall to mindless consumption in search of bargains? The holiday season frequently prompts reckless spending, overriding our customary caution. The constant barrage of holiday offers, some of which begin as early as October, demonstrates this trend.
But how does being thankful fit into this story? The main idea of Thanksgiving is being grateful and kind, not spending too much money. Even though parties can be costly, they don’t have to be. Many families have potluck dinners where everyone brings a dish to help share the cost and bring people together.
But it seems like the idea of giving is getting weaker. Thanksgiving is turning into just another time for sales, instead of a break from shopping. The never-ending need for holiday shopping keeps this going, making workers leave their families to meet what shoppers want.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the pressure to conform to consumerism increases. Despite the bustle, there are ways to celebrate thoughtfully. Planning ahead of time and adopting homemade meals can help you save money while maintaining tradition. Sharing the workload with guests or looking at community food choices might help you save money while also fostering diversity.
Travel costs can make holidays more expensive. Whether you pick cheap road trips or deal with busy airports, you need to think carefully, especially with health worries still around.
What about Christmas presents? Even though Black Friday and Cyber Monday have good deals, shopping online can be less hectic than going to stores. Because of possible shipping delays, planning early might be smart to get the gifts you want without rushing at the last minute.
Most importantly, Thanksgiving is about being thankful. Spending a moment to think about what you’re grateful for can give you peace and a better view of things during a busy time. Showing gratitude, whether by writing it down or saying it out loud, can help control the urge to spend too much.
As Thanksgiving gets closer, it’s important to handle the holiday season thoughtfully. While sales might be tempting, keeping Thanksgiving as a day for giving thanks and being with family is very important. By focusing on what really matters, you can enjoy the holiday more.
Associate Writer • Social Media and Cultural Trends Writer
Sebastian creates compelling posts, topics, and reviews of social media and cultural trends to help readers on what’s in and what’s out.
