What do I really want? Okay, simple and direct - the theme for this Christmas is functionality. Give me something that is practical enough for me to use and applicable to my life. Something that is in line with what I do and what I like.
Not a framed up inspiration quote for my wall (I don't like to drill holes) or something cute to make my (non-existent) work desk look pretty. Not another key chain please. I've already got a box full of that. Definitely not a kiddy size drinking water dispenser, or a coloured scented candle, or a plush toy hand phone holder, or a flower pot (yes, I ever gotten all of that).
Yup, it's hard. Whoever said buying presents are easy?
You shouldn't be complaining about what you are getting, I hear you saying. Who can forget the age-old cliche : It's the thought that counts.
Sure there's always "the thought"?
I can't help getting the feeling that, these days, it is simply a societal norm now to give out pressies. The significance of giving gifts to remind us of God's gift to the world has long been cast aside. Even Harry Potter exchanges magical gifts with his witches and warlocks playmates during Christmas. Well-meaning givers easily fall into the trap of not thinking much about what they are giving out. Giving presents acquire a get-over-and-be-done-with attitude with desperate shopping at the eleventh hour. Giving gifts becomes a yearly routine to go with the flow of society that is influenced by the western culture. Hence, the commercialization of Christmas.
My hubby's most memorable Christmas gift was a flower pot embraced by a clay gnome. Seriously, will anyone even consider that he, an obvious exercise-junkie with big biceps and all, will ever need or want a flower pot? Hmm... maybe his rather tan complexion suggests that gardening is his other passion!?
Okay, before you shout " The pot calling the kettle black!" in my face, I'll confess that I'm sure I've ever given useless things to my friends. Thanks to their grace, they haven't thrown it back in my face. So this year, I'm taking extra effort to remind myself about the functionality of my gifts.
Here's a little help in case you will like to give me a Christmas present and are boggled by what I like - traveling and sports are my passion. Animals are my interest. Clever gadgets excite me. Pretty and practical things score even more points. Hope that helps.
Finally, do remember that Jesus Christ is the greatest gift to mankind this Christmas and of course Merry Christmas to one and all!!!
