Here are the five virtues to carry you into Black Friday

Black Friday can provide an odd contrast both with the day before, Thanksgiving, and the forthcoming holiday to which it is directed — the celebration of the birth of Christ.

Capitalism may be the most efficient way to satisfy market needs while reducing prices and increasing efficiencies through competition. But if people don’t temper it with timeless virtues, the result can be devastating.

Think unbridled greed and corruption. Think about the Biblical grinding of the faces of the poor, to paraphrase Isaiah. Think about the opposite of the Christ child, who is the embodiment of selfless love and redemption.

Think of all those videos you’ve seen of people acting badly as they fight for items on sale.

With that in mind, here are five virtues to cultivate as you head to the stores, or even if you don’t.