Is It Really Free?

Was just discussing some topics tonight and this phrase came out of my mind, not claiming any credit for it :P

Nothing comes free or cheap, it's at the costs of others

We, as typical Asians, are bargain hunters. We like to see the word "Mega Sales", "Closing down sales", and best of all "FREE"! Our eyes will hardly notice words like "Charity", "Donations" and not to mention "volunteer work".
But how many times do we ever think of how others are affected by the free or cheaper things? Do we ever care or know the consequences of others?

Imagine these few scenarios:
1. For fundraising purposes, they offer free BBQ hot dogs. Most Asians would just go for the hot dogs and ignore other stuffs for donations!
2. Shop has very few customers though we like the stuffs inside. We just wouldn't buy it. We wait for the "Closing down" sales to take advantage of the cheaper price.

The organiser or owner are bearing all the costs of the "free" or "discounted" items. They're either cutting profit or making a loss. So, in a way, I pity them.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not encouraging your to buy expensive items and feel good about it. There're unscrupulous businessmen out there trying to con consumers by baiting high retail prices.

It's totally up to your own judgement to see whether those things are worth the price or not. If it's worth the price, buy it and support them. Don't keep bargaining for the price. Be smart in making decisions.

Think about it, they need to make a living too. Don't squeeze the life out of them.