On a recent trip to the mall, I happened to be browsing in an aisle where two ladies were expressing their displeasure that retailers already had Christmas trees, pine garlands, and all sorts of ornaments and holiday décor on display – way too soon, they thought – in AUGUST! They were in agreement that the holiday season, particularly gift-giving, not only put a heavy strain on their budgets but was very stressful! What stressed them even more than costs was choosing the ‘right’ gift – something the receiver would like, didn’t have, and would appreciate. I’m sure we’ve all experienced that dilemma.
Whether it’s a friend or a relative … whether it’s a young child, a teenager, or an adult … “choosing” can be grueling! For example, let’s say you’re considering something to wear – What brand do they like; what style would they prefer; what colors do they favor; what size would fit – and numerous other considerations can drive you crazy with endless pondering. To ensure that you’re not duplicating something they already have, maybe ask some questions, and IF you’re lucky, someone will guide you in the right direction!
While giving cash or a gift card eliminates some of the giver’s stress, they also may feel it is too impersonal; however, some receivers might actually appreciate that opportunity to choose what they want or need.
In all honesty, we need to worry less about purchasing gifts that will be soon forgotten and focus more on gathering with family and friends to make lasting memories.
Let me share a little humor. Three adult brothers were each debating on the BEST gift they could buy their elderly mother. Since all three were successful and very well off, cost was not an issue. Brother #1 decided to buy his mom a large, exquisite new home. Brother #2 chose an expensive new car with all the bells and whistles for mom. Brother #3 thought he was being more imaginative and thoughtful, and had spent a year paying a small fortune to have a parrot trained in memorizing Bible verses because he knew how much his mother loved her Bible.
The holiday came and went, and each of the brothers got thank you cards from their mother. To son #1, mom wrote, “The big house is truly very nice, but I can hardly get up the stairs, and it will be a lot for me to clean!” To son #2, mom wrote, “What a lovely car, but my vision is not as good as it used to be, so I don’t drive much any more.” To son #3, mom wrote, “I just want you to know how thrilled I was with your gift; it was the most delicious chicken I’ve ever eaten!”
It seems that mom couldn’t have cared less about the overwhelming amount of money her sons had spent. I’m just guessing that the perfect gift she might have most enjoyed would have been if they had shown up, wrapped her in hugs, spent the day with her, and perhaps brought in a take-out holiday meal. The gift of their shared time would have given her a precious memory never to be forgotten, wouldn’t you agree?? After all, the value of a wonderful gift is not etched in an expensive price tag. Just celebrating the birth of Jesus and sharing the joy of that day with those we love is really a priceless gift in itself. The quote below offers some meaningful suggestions.
Quote of the Week: “The best gifts to give: To your friends, loyalty; To your enemies, forgiveness; To your boss, service; To a child, a good example; To your parents, gratitude and devotion; To your mate, love and faithfulness; To all humanity, charity.” ~ Oren Arnold
