Thanksgiving is a time for family, good food, football, traditions — oh, and Black Friday.

What once was a day for markdowns transformed into a national movement consisting of stampedes in stores across nations.

Every year American consumers spend an estimated $683 billion on in-store retail alone, which averages to $403.35 per person.

Black Friday has transformed from lines the day after Thanksgiving to people packing outside of stores on Thursday evening.

I found myself partaking in late Thursday night shopping. I was both satisfied with my deals but sympathetic for employees.

Many stores remain open on Thanksgiving to allow for the most profit possible. Some of the stores, including Walmart, are open all day Thursday, and stores such as Target and Toys R Us open later in the evening.

Speaking from personal experience, I cannot help but wonder the desperation the employees in stores across America must feel. I felt panicked and overwhelmed in line at Bath and Body Works at 11 p.m. spinning around in circles looking for my mom.

With all the chaos surrounding Black Friday and a reported 99 million shoppers in stores on Black Friday in 2015, one can only wonder if the chaos is worth the struggle.

Long lines, hours waiting and sympathy for those stuck behind the register, many waffle between grabbing their wallets or staying at home.