Some thoughts on gifting
“Giving doesn’t impoverish us; it makes us richer.” ~Martha Beck, The Way of Integrity
Who doesn’t enjoy getting presents? There are many different gifting styles and practices — and psychotherapists have some interesting theories on that. Some people get a thrill out of selecting the perfect presents for their loved ones, while others simply don’t express their affection with material things.
I know many people who discourage gift-giving because they don’t want to feel obligated to reciprocate. Others don’t have a budget to buy gifts, but will gladly receive them.
All said and done, the gifts we treasure come from the heart — or are made by hand. A dear friend of mine is a creative knitter who’s crafted everything from keepsake toys for my grandson to a whimsical Halloween witch hat for me.
Gift-giving doesn’t need a special occasion. I love buying small presents for others when the mood strikes. When I’m out shopping, I often purchase items that are appropriate for certain loved ones, then store them away until the time is right to pass them along. What’s your giving style? Do you enjoy gift giving? ~CL
Cindy La Ferle
Throughout my career, I've worked as a book production editor, travel magazine editor, features writer, and weekly newspaper columnist. My award-winning lifestyles features and essays have appeared in many national magazines and anthologies, including Newsweek, Reader's Digest, The Christian Science Monitor, Writer's Digest, Victoria, Better Homes & Gardens, Bella Grace, and more. My weekly Sunday "Life Lines" column ran for 14 years in The Daily Tribune (Royal Oak, MI) and won a First Place (Local Columns) award from the Michigan Press Association. My essay collection, Writing Home, includes 93 previously published columns and essays focusing on parenthood and family life.
