I've never understood how the day that launches the Christmas holiday season should be burdened with the grim moniker "Black Friday."
Yes, I know sales receipts from this one day can determine a company's profit margins for the entire calendar year. But why should dictates of retailers and advertisers interrupt a traditional family holiday? Why can't another day or a series of days be designated for sales? Why do we, as consumers, allow big business to encroach on all-too-rare time alone with family and friends?
Thanksgiving was my favourite holiday, before crass commercialism overtook common sense. As anyone who's ever braved hordes of stressed shoppers can attest, buying gifts in such a fraught environment is not pleasant. It beggars belief that millions of people put themselves through hours of misery, just to save a few dollars. And most stores with an online presence - even in England - bombard our email inboxes offering "Black Friday" bargains. (At least no crowds come with these solicitations).
Holidays are meant to be pleasurable and relaxing, but "Black Friday" suggests the opposite. So I am kicking off the season with a string of celebratory lights and ignoring the endless encouragement to shop. What say you?