Buying gifts for the people you care about at Christmas time can be one of the most stressful parts of Christmas. I have been thinking about this lately. I hate how our commercial society turns Christmas into a big fat advertisement and fills the holiday with greed. I have this battle with family members every Christmas. I think we should ask "What do you need for Christmas", not "What do you want?"
Sometimes I feel that in our culture Christmas has gotten very far from Christ.
Here are some of the guidelines I try to implement in gift giving:
- Decide a reasonable budget : From $0 and up, there isn't a "norm." What works for you?
- Assess for needs: Are there things that the people you love need, that they can't get for themselves?
- Give thoughtfully and with love: Cater your gift to the recipient. Give something that would be particularly meaningful to that individual, even if it means nothing to the rest of the world.
- Give of yourself: Share a part of your individual gifts and talents with those you love. These types of gifts speak volumes and are very meaningful.
Think back in your life. I would bet that you do not remember many of the gifts that you have received. My guess is that most of your memories are about tradition and times when family is gathered together in love. Let's let our gift reflect this family love this Christmas. This is a clip from the First Presidency Devotional. It is a wonderful guideline for giving the gift of love! :) Have a Merry Christmas!
President Eyring: http://www.lds.org/broadcasts/watch/christmas-devotional/2012/12?lang=eng&vid=2006212142001