A year ago I shared this on social media, and it is still relevant today.
1. Over the years I have received some really thoughtful gifts and some not so great gifts. I have always tried to take into account that the giver had good intentions and I need to thank them. There’s an art to showing appreciation when you receive a gift, and you should be thankful whether you literally like it or not. It shouldn’t be hard to say, “Thank you!” Keep the “Why would you buy me this?” type comments to yourself.
2. To piggyback on that thought, I think that thankfulness is something that should be taught. I’m not sure that some of us have shown our children the value of a dollar and they aren’t entitled to anything really. If you celebrate Christmas, it should be about the true meaning. If you have a different belief system, it should most certainly be about more than what someone gives you or vice versa. It’s not cool to see a kid jerk something from you when they should say “thank you.”
3. No matter what your belief system, it’s a shame that some of us wait until December to show goodwill toward men. Why can’t we be nice and show compassion for others 365 days a year? I’m pretty sure that the Golden Rule applies to every religious doctrine. Heck, even if you don’t believe in a higher power, you should still do right by others.
4. There’s something to be said for a written note, whether it’s to say thank you or to wish someone well. I’m not a fan of preprinted thank you notes without a personal message. Since I spent the time to buy a gift, shouldn’t one take the time to personally thank me? I realize that I may ruffle some feathers with this statement, but if you’re expecting a lot of gifts for a particular occasion (weddings, graduations, etc.), plan to take the time to show gratitude.
5. Admittedly I’m not the best gift giver. Growing up there were several Christmases when there were no gifts to be opened and that was the way it was. I don’t always think about giving gifts because it wasn’t always the focus. However, I do try to be there for my family and friends when I’m needed. I’ve come to appreciate the fact that I have a solid support system no matter what’s happening in my life. Plus a gadget can’t do much for you when you need a friend.
6. I realize that during this time, those who have lost loved ones really miss them. I miss my mother randomly, and on any given day there might be a smell, sound or thought that will take me back to a special time that we shared. I hope that my friends who have recently had to say goodbye to a loved one will find comfort in the love they shared. I know it’s not easy, which is one of the reasons why I post a heart emoji, because I can never seem to find the best words of comfort. May you find joy and peace this holiday season, and even if you receive something you might be less than thrilled with, put on a happy face. Think how wonderful it is to be alive to open a gift. #ksmithsays
ksmithsays 