Yes, it’s the holidays! One thing I love is giving gifts! There’s so much fun in picking out just the right gifts for the people in my life and giving them. The problem is that I tend to fall into a trap; this is especially true with my immediate family. I buy those special gifts and get them wrapped and under the tree. Then, I look at the tree and think – gee, it’s a little slim. Back I go shopping. It’s at those times that my ability to discern the perfect gift from the perfect sale is faulty. This sale is great, and, well, they might like a neon orange shirt, and I DO need more under the tree.
Yes, I’m guilty of buying gifts to wrap. Those gifts that end up in a closet unused. I have no problem with people returning my gifts, but, often, they don’t. Sigh! Of course, I’m not the only one. We receive many of these “filler” gifts from family as well. (Think bright pink slanket or leopard print leisure top – shudder!) The intentions are good, but, in the end, money has been wasted and the only real joy comes from the unwrapping, not the receiving.
Here’s my dilemma – I feel like people will be disappointed if I don’t show up with piles of presents, but in my heart I know that they will only enjoy those special gifts I’ve put so much thought into.
This year might just mark a change in direction for my gift giving – I want to give, but I also want friends and family to love what they receive. Restraint, balance, discipline – I’m gonna try.
Do you fall into the present trap? How do you make sure your giving isn’t about quantity but about really sharing the joy of the season?
