Skipping Black Friday is a custom for me.  I prefer to use the day to think about upcoming Advent and to take the Christmas Pledge.

I wrote this down decades ago, and I can’t find the source online.  It has served me well.

The Christmas Pledge

1. To remember those people who truly need my gifts.
2. To express my love for family and friends in more direct ways that presents.
3. To rededicate myself to the spiritual growth of my family.
4. To examine my holiday activities in light of the true spirit of Christmas.
5. To initiate one act of peacemaking within my circle of family and friends.

Amen to that.