What's Wrong with Saving Money on Black Friday?

While Black Friday is a mayhem-filled, chaotic and potentially violent day for shoppers and retailers alike, it is frustrating to hear that so many see it as a negative experience. While reports have come out stating that this was the largest Black Friday in history in terms of foot traffic with over 300 million store visits, many people find themselves outraged that on this day of giving, showing thanks, and displaying love that people concern themselves with thoughts like "Will I get the biggest deal?" or "How much money will I save tonight?" 

Frankly, I feel as if this is an overtired argument. We live in a commercialized society. It is unfortunate that so many feel obligated to spend thousands of dollars to show they that significant person in their life. For me, I do not feel obligated to get a person a gift that is worth hundreds of dollars and will wow them with impressive qualities. I get them something that I feel like they will appreciate and will convey just how special they are to me. Instead of whining about how commercialized we have become, which will get us nowhere and only reiterates what we all know to be true, others should focus on the benefits of Black Friday. 

The idea of a commercialized society can be related to Black Friday because I honestly do not see the harm in waiting in a few lines to get something special for that certain someone. I was out there in the lines Thursday night, and I went with my best friend. We actually see the whole idea of Black Friday as a bonding experience, and we are both poor college students. Securing that deal is satisfying and often comes as a relief to our barren wallets. Yes, there are people who take it to the extreme and push, shove, and even stab people for a crazy deal. However, there are also people who rob banks, murder people, and launder money. People who participate in stupid actions are everywhere. We cannot let them define every Black Friday shopping experience.

Yes, we live in a commercialized society where people feel obligated to buy gifts for those they love. However, crying about that is not going to change it. We are evolving, and maybe it is not for the better. We need to learn that if we cannot beat 'em, we need to join 'em. The people who are so adamant that Black Friday is the antichrist and that we should all sit around and hold hands and be thankful are living in a dream world. They are also missing out on a fun day where you can potentially save money and purchase something that reminds that special person you are thinking about them. There is time to be thankful and snag a great deal. I did it, after all. And guess what? I did not shove, push or stab anyone either.