The holiday season is upon us. Brace yourselves.
Granted, it's only October and while I wanted to carve a pumpkin and loose myself in a corn maze with some friends, most stores have a completely different idea.
I was sippin' on a pumpkin spice latte in the beginning of October (October 5th to be exact) when I got a Snapchat from my friend. A 10 second video that could just about ruin anyone's Fall day. It was that very popular and well known Hershey Kiss Christmas commercial (where they're bells ringing to "We Wish You a Merry Christmas") on television. ALREADY?! I was shocked. I'm busy planning my Halloween costume, while businesses are stocking their shelves with Christmas decorations and preparing for holiday sales.
Every year, Christmas seems to come earlier and earlier. Sure, Christmas is still December 25th every year, but the preparation starts so early. Think about it. I mean, before I could even buy back-to-school supplies, there was Christmas ornaments out on display. Now, finding the chocolate bars for the trick-or-treaters might as well be candy canes.
Is it just me, or do stores seem to put out their holiday decorations earlier and earlier each year? I can't figure out why stores start selling Christmas decorations in August. Is it to make money, or is it because people are actually beginning to prep and buy Christmas items for that "sale" price? The world may never know; but pretty soon, Christmas decorations are going to be sold year-round, that's how early Christmas "prep" is going to start.
Holidays have defiantly lost their meaning. What should be a time for being thankful, sharing memories with family and giving back turns into greed, discounts, and owning the most popular electronic on the market. Black Friday hours start earlier and earlier each year, which makes the retail workers miss out on time with their family, so stores can make money and people can get a few dollars off. Holidays are supposed to be for family and friends, laughs and memories. Sure, maybe I'm being a "bah humbug" but I think the four month prep for Christmas is just a little crazy.
I enjoy holidays just as much as the next person. I love being able to spend time with my family, stuff my face with turkey and pumpkin pie, and give meaningful gifts to the ones I love. I love being able to look at the beautiful Christmas lights and decorations. I don't believe there is such thing as "too much holiday cheer" but I do believe there is such a thing as greed, especially during holiday season. Before arguing with the cashier over an expired coupon, screaming at the employee in the toy store, or shoving an elderly lady on your way into Walmart, think about your family and how you would want them to be treated.
This holiday season, remember what they are really about. Free turkeys, 75% off televisions and door busters don't define the holidays.
The holiday season is upon us. Brace yourselves.