I visited the market today to buy a few things, and honestly, I wasn't expecting what I saw. The prices of things are gradually increasing, even though Christmas is still some weeks away.
I noticed that some items I used to buy at certain prices were already becoming more expensive. At first, I thought maybe I was getting it wrong, so I asked some of the market women why the prices were going up.
Their response was simple: "We are entering the season. Christmas is coming."
I just stood there wondering what that had to do with the prices going up. Is Christmas not supposed to be a season when people get to enjoy themselves? Why should everything become more expensive when people are preparing to celebrate?
I understand that sellers have their own reasons for adjusting prices, and I am not saying they should sell at a loss, but sometimes, I wish things would work differently during festive periods. It's a time of celebration so things should be made affordable for the ordinary man.
I was just wondering about families who are already struggling to manage their monthly expenses, and christmas comes with additional responsibilities. Parents want to buy clothes for their children, prepare special meals, buy foodstuff and probably travel to spend time with family members.
Now, imagine having to deal with increased prices on top of all these expenses.
Even those who have been saving money for Christmas may find out that the amount they put aside is no longer enough to buy the things they planned for.
What makes me curious is that Christmas comes every year and is not something new. So why does preparing for it have to come with so much financial pressure?, and hike in prices of food stuffs.
I actually expect things to be a little more affordable during festive periods so that more people can enjoy the season without worrying too much about money.
Image is by Google Gemini.