By Josh Rumsey

It’s 4 a.m. on a Friday morning. You’re outside in the cold, huddled around several people that in just a few short moments will trample, bump, and ram into you just to get into your favorite store.

However, in this scenario, you’re doing the same. The funny part is, just a few hours ago you were surrounded by your loved ones, being thankful for everything you have in your life.

Don’t get me wrong on this, a day of sales is a fantastic idea. Consumers and retailers both thrive on Black Friday, and the amount of commerce that takes place is astounding.

However, like many great ideas poor timing and execution can change the opinions of many people who participate in the idea; especially for something like Black Friday.

Black Friday has been inconveniently placed after Thanksgiving ever since 1924, when the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade was started.

Entrepreneurs and retailers mark the prices on their items significantly lower than usual to draw in customers looking for great deals, specifically for some Christmas shopping.

However my issue with the holiday is not the idea itself, but how close it is to Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a holiday where you should be spending time with family, as well as being thankful for your own accomplishments and possessions alike.

There’s quite a bit of irony in the idea that eight hours after Thanksgiving dinner, you’ll be trampling and fighting people for material possessions that you just happen to want.

“I think that Black Friday is a lot of fun, and great for shoppers and workers alike, but however slightly lacking in morals,” said Lauren Luthy ‘17, a Hollister Co. employee who will be working that day.

“The holiday would still have no trouble if it were placed either a week before or after Thanksgiving; the timing definitely seems odd,” Luthy ’17 said.

Luthy isn’t wrong either. The idea of Black Friday is great for buyers looking for fantastic deals, as well as retail workers looking for hours, such as Luthy and myself. In fact, I would say that I have enjoyed the thrill of shopping early that morning.

However, it is slightly sad to see that shortly after a national holiday about giving thanks, we go straight back to wanting the next best thing.

Remember to be extra thankful this Thanksgiving, and if you do shop the following day, make sure to keep your head in the right place.