The crowds were out in full force at NorthPark Center on Black Friday, but shoppers there and at other area malls weren’t holding as many bags as in past years. Photo by Chitose Susuki via The Dallas Morning News.

The holidays; nothing says Thanksgiving like a good meal, surrounded by those you love and the slaughter of the indigenous back in the 18th century, am I right? Along with Black Friday and Christmas with spending money, gift-giving, and overcrowded stores!

The tradition of Thanksgiving and its origins is overlooked around the holiday season because of its speculated horrifying beginning. In history class, we were all taught it was a celebration between the pilgrims and the indigenous people for harvests or victory. But others pinpoint the origin of the holiday as a celebration of slaughter, specifically against the Pequot people. The first feast is still a mystery to this day. Knowing the history of America, I wouldn’t be surprised if that were the case.

Then, what is Thanksgiving? Many people celebrate the date with a big feast and are surrounded by those they are thankful for. Some groups also prefer to host “Friendsgiving,” which, practically, is the same concept applied to close friends. Personally, I believe “Thanksgiving” is a recognition of the people you are grateful for in your life. I’m not the closest to my immediate family, but I still like to acknowledge the powerful connection many others have. I would much rather be a part of a “Friendsgiving.”

The rush continues with Black Friday and Christmas, the most capitalist holiday duo known to man. Consumers spend thousands (estimated) of dollars during the sales of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. To those who work in retail, I feel the pain of an overpacked store and frustrated customers. Trust and believe, I do. 

The last in line for this stressful end of the year is none other than Christmas, which many look forward to for several reasons. Some may not also look forward to Christmas for reasons similar to not looking forward to Thanksgiving. 

Whether it be not enjoying family presence, political reasoning, or not celebrating it, everyone’s reasons are valid for not anticipating the holidays.