Remember Thanksgiving spirit throughout the year

By: The Traveler Editorial Board

Posted: 12/1/08

Much to the chagrin of this Editorial Board and numerous UA students, Thanksgiving break is over.

It was a short vacation, but a much-needed one, and most students on campus probably had a decent time visiting home, catching up with family and friends, watching a little football, and, unless their willpower exceeds that of the typical American, eating entirely too much during the traditional Thanksgiving meal.

But with the grumbling of students back on campus, it's as if the relaxation never occurred.

And others across the country also appeared to have forgotten the holiday spirit last week. While the majority of students spent quality time with relatives, and perhaps entertained themselves with a few shopping trips on Black Friday, one Walmart employee in New York was trampled to death and two California shoppers were shot dead on what's notoriously one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

That an unstable economy and the frugality of many Americans would lead to three deaths is unthinkable - and tragic. That these deaths occurred mere hours after many across the country expressed gratitude and content for their lives and loved ones is even more unbelievable.

Sure, thriftiness is a helpful trait, especially around the holiday season, but it's hard to imagine that a few toys and electronics would incite such hate and selfishness. But somehow, still, every Black Friday sparks more horror stories.

So, next Thanksgiving, we hope more Americans take to heart what the holiday is all about. We hope frenzied shoppers remember that missing the "biggest sales of the season" isn't the end of the world.

And we hope UA students remember their priorities and get through the dreadful December finals without throwing too many tantrums.

Next Thanksgiving, we hope the spirit of gratitude and contentment lasts much longer than 24 hours.