Thanksgiving is a time we reground ourselves with a heart of gratitude and give pause to pay recognition to the miracles in life. In strict opposition to the spirit of entitlement that threatens to entangle many with an identity of being spoiled rather than blessed, we move from Thanksgiving into the Christmas season with an opportunity to bless those we are thankful for. Throughout the rest of the year, many cherry-pick political and social battles to fight. But this season shouldn’t be observed as another opportunity to stir social media wars with rhetoric on Santa vs. Jesus, materialism in America, or if we are really keeping Christ in Christmas (because He was never – and can never – be removed from Christmas to begin with). As the angels sang, “Peace on earth and goodwill toward men.” It’s the season of ceasefires and reconciliation. It’s a celebration where offense is buried and forgiveness reigns. It’s a time for giving. However, a lot of people see giving gifts as a burden and not a joy. If you have a difficult time shopping for gifts, I want to give you some ideas you may not find on Amazon.
If every member of your extended family expects a gift
This shouldn’t be a season to stress over budgets since Christmas is always on the 25th of December and always will be for the foreseeable future. However, some cannot escape the expectations set by traditions of getting gifts for all aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins, etc. For many, this can make Christmas a bit more stressful than it should be. Here’s an easy solution that will kill two birds with one stone. Many nonprofits offer opportunities to give in honor of someone with an e-card or mailed card to arrive to them. And in many cases, these will not disclose the donation amount given. Let me be clear in saying you should shortchange any charitable organization. But you can give what you can (perhaps meet the suggested donation) and split it between the family members. Plus, you will be giving towards a worthy cause that will be helping others around the world.
A gift for wives from husbands who don’t know what to get their spouse
Husbands can have the best intentions but can draw a blank when looking for gifts. It doesn’t mean he doesn’t love you. And though I always love the gifts my husband gets me, he often expresses that it takes a lot of mental energy to make it come together. Plus, if you are a minimalist, the last thing you want is more clutter and stuff to collect dust. Can you remember what you got last Christmas? What about the Christmas before? It’s hard to remember the stuff. But adventures are hard to forget. That’s why Jonathan and I have started giving towards experiences together. What if you took a Caribbean cruise together in the winter? A trip to the Grand Canyon in the spring, a hot air balloon ride for the summer, or a restful weekend away and unplugged in a four star inn? Plus, you create something to look forward to. Half of the excitement is in the anticipation.
A gift for young parents
Shopping can be quite the event when buying groceries with kids. Unbuckling the kids from their car seat, potentially interrupting a nap, getting them in a stroller, and going up and down the aisles while they cry. Sounds exhausting! There are grocery stores offering online shopping. Simply enter your order online, a pickup time will be given, drive to the speaker and tell them your last name. Your groceries will be brought out to your car and you don’t even have to get out! Typically, a $5.00 fee will be charged per transaction. However, a onetime fee of $100 can cover an entire year of unlimited online shopping transactions. My favorite option is Lowe’s Foods. Not only will shopping with kids be easier, but it’s also a wonderful time saver!
A gift for the dreamer
Does one of your close friends or family members have a dream for the New Year? Perhaps they have written a book and want it published. Those ISBN numbers are not free, you know. Maybe they want to start a photography business. Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or Creative Cloud is not cheap. These are the gifts that keep on giving! Perhaps this is a shared expense you and others can do to be an advocate for their dreams.
A gift for the serious girlfriend
You consider her your best friend. You like her family. She likes your family. You care for her and can’t imagine life without her. She’s thought about it and if you’re on your A game, so have you. This is not only Christmas season. This is engagement season. I recall returning to school after Christmas break and so many girlfriends became fiancées. Know her ring size. Ask her father’s blessing. Make the moment romantic. Plan, plan, and plan some more. If you’ve been seriously committed for some time, you not only have an opportunity, you have a deadline. Don’t think she won’t walk away and find someone who will fully commit. If you’re hesitant, it’s probably not worth continuing the relationship. One day in the right direction is better than several months in the wrong direction. But if you love her, make this a Christmas she’ll never forget!
(If you make the leap to being an engaged couple, check out my previous blogs on engagement and marriage.)
Have a safe and wonderful holiday season. And may all your Christmases be merry and bright.