Letters: Don’t be consumed by consumerism

If you participated in the madness of Black Friday shopping or the ease of Cyber Monday deals, you know how easy it is to fall into the trap of a consumeristic American culture.

With so many great sales, it is tempting to over purchase, especially now. The National Retail Federation estimates that Americans will spend $655.8 billion, or about $928.58 per shopper, on holiday gifts this year.

This extreme purchasing results in large amounts of debt and stress for the consumer. Additionally, our environment cannot keep providing the resources necessary to produce all of these goods.

So this holiday season, make sure you are not distracted from what truly matters. When you look back on your previous holidays, do you remember the many gifts you received or the moments you shared with loved ones? Put the money you would spend on gifts toward your favorite charity or the time you would devote buying gifts toward your family.