Black Friday

The holidays are in full swing. The turkey was carved and many of us over ate and we still have the rest of the holidays to go. (Soon I will be writing about how we have to forgive ourselves for over indulging and eating too much). As soon as the last piece of pumpkin pie was cut, attention turned to what is called "Black Friday." Why is it called "Black Friday?" The term originated from the day the stock market hit a catastrophe on September 24, 1869 and the markets crashed following a failed attempt by some financiers who tried to corner the gold market. Making it a dark day and time in our history.

Since then the term "Black Friday" has taken a new twist and turn. This day always occurs the day after Thanksgiving and starts the official rush for Christmas shopping. Retailers now refer to it by this term because it's when many go from being in the red to turning a profit and going black. (This is one of the few times that I've noticed when something that effects the general public is referred to as "black" with a positive outcome.)

As I sit to write this piece, I just hung up from talking to a friend and she was telling me she needed to go because she would be getting up and meeting other friends at 1:00am (Friday Morning) to be part of the crowd that saves lots of money from all of the store sales. I have never been one to participate in such chaos because uncontrolled crowds actually get on my nerves, plus I try to plan my shopping and giving throughout the year.

The point that I want to make is no matter how many savings that go on during the holidays, if you don't have the budget to shop, don't. Don't let commercialism get you caught up where you are not only NOT in the "black" with your checking account, but you also have no "green" in your pocket.

Remember, at the end of the day, this is the season where you can give in so many ways. One of the most important ways is with your time and expertise. Give of yourself. As I have often quoted, "people really don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care." At the end of the day toys will go in the trash, people will forget what you bought, but they will never forget when you've touched their heart.

Healing Without Hate: It's a choice. It's a lifestyle. Pass it on!

Visit www.WendyGladney.com & www.forgivingforliving.org. You can email her at wendy.gladney@gmail.com. Also follow her blog: Wendygladney.blogspot.com. Wendy is featured on Radio Free 102.3 KJLH on Dominique DiPrima's Front Page Friday Mornings @ 5:00am.