The Ten Blogs of Christmas (#2)

REASON #2

GIFTS

I specifically mean the giving of gifts.

Yeah right, you know you like to GET gifts Steph. Don't pretend like you're one of those people who don't like gifts.

Yes, I do enjoy opening gifts--who doesn't? But I really, really enjoy the tradition of giving gifts to others. This is one of the only times of the year I actually enjoy shopping! It is fun to go out and find a gift for someone who is special to you. I am actually very happy with the gifts I found to give to my family and friends this year. Some of them have already opened their gifts and it was a treat to see the look of wonder and surprise in their eyes. That truly is a gift in and of itself.

SCHMALTZY, STEPH!

However, through my 5 years or so of working in retail, I have come upon the ugly side of gift giving. This monster will no doubt rear it's ugly head as I work tomorrow--which is very unfortunate. It is so sad how commercial this joyous holiday has become. I really don't like how people think they have to buy, buy, buy all kinds of crap. It's sad that parents think they have to buy shopping carts full of toys for each of their kids. Kids have too much stuff these days!

You sound like an old woman, Steph.

Yeah, well, I don't care.

People have forgotten why gifts are given in the first place! It's not about impressing people, or spending money, or keeping up with the Jones'! It's not about having the coolest gadgets or most popular toys. None of that matters!!! Gifts are supposed to come from the heart. The wise men gave the first Christmas gifts in honor of the birth of the Savior. The Savior himself did nothing but give during his lifetime and gave all of us the ultimate gift by paying the ultimate price.

It's not the gift itself that matters--it's the thought, the time, the preparation, and the reason behind the gift. It is a way to say how you feel about someone--it shows that you truly care.

That is why I like giving gifts to people.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNsvE33pRSw