Shipping delays: they are all anyone can talk about right now.
Should I wait and buy presents when I normally do, or should I go ahead and buy them? The talks of shipping delays and low inventory for holiday gifts are likely delivering scary thoughts to Christmas shoppers.
For some, it goes much deeper into those who cannot afford to do their Christmas shopping yet. Some may typically just be starting to work extra shifts to allow them to pay for both bills in the winter months and Christmas present for their loved ones. However, the talk of there being a shipping crisis brings a whole new level of stress to those down on their luck with funds.
Is the over shopping and panic buying worth it for those who can, though? Yes. I personally believe that in the time of COVID, with shipping delays and continually changing needs to protect everyone, it is best to be prepared, including with Christmas shopping.
However, I urge everyone to consider the population of people that may not have the same opportunities as others this holiday season. Everyone deserves to celebrate the holidays, and in Appalachia, our population of people in poverty is high. Sometimes people have to save up all year long, working sometimes double and triple shifts, to be able to afford various necessities. I believe that this population is important to consider during the holidays if you are someone who can afford to over-prepare.
So, buy early and make sure that you get the things you want in order to avoid delayed shipping, but please remember the people who do not have the same luxury as you do. If you wish to help those struggling this Christmas season, consider donating to Toys for Tots. There are also other local donation opportunities, which one can find by doing a quick Internet search.
Empathy is a small gift you can give, even to those you don’t know.
