ON SHOPPING

I tried this "Black Friday" nonsense a few years ago. I stayed up all night, playing Halo 2 online, and headed for Best Buy well over an hour before the 5 am opening time. I knew I wouldn't be the first in line, but...I was something like 300th in line. And it turned out that the people who had been there for a full day got little certificates so they could get out of line if necessary, so they ended up getting all of the "15 per store" items or whatever, ruining the chance for everyone else.

I think it frustrates me that people often buy these items simply to re-sell them online. For one, the manufacturer doesn't see any of that money. For example, let's say "Statonco" makes a computer for $280, then sells that computer to Best Buy for $300. Best Buy sells it for $320, making a small profit. But then some jerk whose only contribution to the whole process is "not having any plans on Thanksgiving" re-sells this computer online for $400, making the largest profit of anyone involved. That doesn't seem fair to me. This is very similar to my feelings on used CD or used video game stores. I don't like them (although I hypocritcally patronize them, and plan to go off buying secondhand stuff next Friday).

Sadly, until I am appointed Secretary of Black Friday (Yes we can!), there's nothing I can do. If I had the power, people would be limited to one amazing deal per store. And no kids under twelve would be allowed, because that's tantamount to child cruelty, asking them to a) be out that early and b) have to deal with all the jerks shopping today. I would also encourage pickpockets to be out in force today, forcing people to stay home (of course, as Secretary of Black Friday, I would get all of the in-store deals online).

Of course, this could all be jealousy because I have to work today.