Christmas shopping is just flat-out depressing. I mean that from the bottom of my heart, and I don't care who hears me say it.
I want to buy incredible gifts for people. I always do, as a matter of fact. The difference in December is that there is an expectation that I would actually do so. Not only that, but people that I love buy presents for me and my children. Good stuff, too. I hate to smile and say "thank you" when I have nothing to give in return.
Don't I sound ungrateful? Gosh, but I'm not. I am awed and amazed by the continual generosity of the people around me.
I want to be able to give, too. Am I whining?
One of the ways that I make myself feel better is to shop at the local department store on my credit card. It's a little like the counting of candy we did as kids...."one for them, and one for me." Because if I am going to spend money I don't have, I am going to get something for me, too!
Then I get buyer's remorse.
So I further anesthetize with ice cream.
Then I get eater's remorse.
Then I am fat and in debt.
It's ugly.
What can be done?
I could buy a lottery ticket. Or sell my children. Or workout.
Bah Humbug.
2 comments:
When you consider that gift giving was supposedly in rememberance of Bishop Nicholas giving to spare a set of sisters from being sold into prostitution (hence their dowry, so they could marry instead!), the wealth we lavish upon ourselves and one another is hardly up to that standard.
We should be following the example of giving to those hurting and in need around us, not each other. I know family politics makes this an incorrect reality. But, we can still give "less" and "cut" someone in need in for a special gift (food, clothing, etc), or a meal, or whatever their need is. At least this is something I try to do every year without their knowing.
I've found that when I can't afford to return gifts to those who have given to me, I make them food instead. Like chocolate covered pretzels or something. It's pretty cheap, easy and best of all, it's tasty!
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