#OptOutside

Perhaps you’ve heard of it? A brilliant idea introduced by REI in 2015 as they decided to forego the typical Black Friday craziness. Whether or not you’ve participated, the simple concept behind the Opt Outside campaign has gone far above and beyond what REI ever imagined.

It began as a response to consumerism in which REI (a well-known outdoor gear company) closed down its doors and online check-out during the busiest shopping day of the year. In addition, the company decided to pay all of their employees while encouraging them to spend time outside having fun with family and friends. This unusual approach to the quintessential post-Thanksgiving Day activities, was far-reaching. REI has started quite a movement around the country, urging individuals to places more value on experiences in nature rather than on “things”. This year, REI expanded their Opt Outside campaign to be more action-intentional regarding caring for the environment. Read about it here.

I’ve never been an active participant in Black Friday shopping, yet I don’t discredit those who love finding a good deal. Having worked retail for many years, however, I can assure you that stress and consumerism abound on this day, a snapshot of how society’s values have shifted.

And so I always make an effort to opt outside on Black Friday. I am grateful that my current line of work enables me to have this day off and awards me the freedom to spend it however I’d like. Despite another head cold (third one this season), I headed out to a regional park and enjoyed the sunshine and fresh air.

I was happy to note that there were quite a few families strolling around the lake. Dogs were on leashes, and one father/son duo marched to the water’s edge with fishing poles in hand. I watched a mother and her three daughters skip stones across the water, their cheers rising and falling like waves.

I walked for a bit, intrigued by the birds that were flitting about. I also reflected on what I was thankful for, particularly when it comes to nature. Trees. Sky. Soil. Flowers. Clouds. Bark. Rocks. Mountains. Stars. Meadows. Insects. Forests. Worms (yes, ’tis true).

Whether or not you chose to #OptOutside on Black Friday, remember that you regularly have the freedom to choose how and where you spend you spend your time. It’s a gift to be able to sit watching a sunset, or walk along a trail in the woods. Remember to choose wisely and to make the most of every moment!