Is it just me or is the concept of Black Friday sales getting more aggressive and despicable each passing year? What used to be a foreign concept outside of North America has now conquered the world and is persecuting all consumers via email, social media, advertising campaigns, shop windows, flyers – you name it, there will be something related to Black Friday finding its way to you.
I can understand (albeit not necessarily agree) the consumerism connected to the holidays where gift-giving is the norm, such as Christmas, Easter, etc. and it family or community based, but Black Friday is pure unadulterated persecution and harassment. Thanksgiving is not my cultural holiday to celebrate, but having Black Friday follow right on the heels of such a beautiful tradition just leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. As if this were not bad enough, once you get through the weekend, a new wave of consumerism invasion marches in to rob us of our peace of mind on Cyber Monday and Giving Tuesday. Who is supposed to be left with any Christmas spirit after this?
I am truly shocked and disappointed at the extent of Black Friday’s grasp here in Europe. I thought we were safe from consumer terrorism but it continues to escalate beyond reason and there is no niche immune to it anymore. Someone somewhere is out to get you to spend on products, subscriptions, courses, trips, bookings, dinners, reservations, or even plants! First you are bombarded with the advertising at the beginning of November, and the days leading up to it feel like oppressive darkness that transforms into a noose around your neck. Then they try the guilt trip by saying that these “fantastic deals” will be gone by Saturday. Good riddance I say! But it doesn’t end there. Half way through the day you are affronted by countdowns, warning you that the Black Friday deals are about to expire.
I hope you did not succumb to Black Friday and are instead, happily gearing up for a fun-filled meaningful and purpose driven weekend!
FrogDiva Thoughts 