Being Free From the Custom of Gift Exchanging
Think of the blessing of being free from the custom of gift exchanging, an obligation that is encouraged by the business world to make money. Is it not true that this custom frustrates, causes financial burdens and robs persons of joy? But others will expect gifts. They will think I have forgotten them. What shall you do? Why not make a list of everyone with whom you have exchanged presents in recent years? Then, instead of sending custom celebration cards, write a note informing them that you are discontinuing customary gift giving. Do this before they buy the gifts. There is no reason to fear the reaction of others to your note. In fact, they may well be delighted. For they, too, may feel caught in a trap, and be happy to breathe a sigh of relief in this time of economic pressure. What you do for them in this regard may be more precious than any other gift you could give them. Abandoning the custom of gift exchanging is courageous action.
If you give the homemade item as a gift, it is so much more appreciated due to the fact that it was made by you. A gift of this kind keeps on giving and reminding the receiver of you much more than would a bought gift.
Perhaps the most important area for true generosity is right within the family. Many families are well off materially and yet are unhappy. How can family members give to one another in ways that really count? People who practice giving with the right spirit and in ways that really count are truly happy. It leads to domestic joy and contentment as well as meaningful relationships with others and you need never fear that freely giving will lead to any lack on your part. Practical gifts, too, can be inexpensive.
Spirit of giving must extend beyond the circle of one's family and friends; and it must be practiced from day to day, not just at certain times of the year.It becomes possible to enjoy many opportunities throughout the year for delighting persons with presents that they did not expect. Since it is not a matter of exchange, a person does not feel "shortchanged" if he does not receive a gift. And any necessary shopping can be done with a single individual in mind and at a time when stores are less crowded.
If you give the homemade item as a gift, it is so much more appreciated due to the fact that it was made by you. A gift of this kind keeps on giving and reminding the receiver of you much more than would a bought gift.
Perhaps the most important area for true generosity is right within the family. Many families are well off materially and yet are unhappy. How can family members give to one another in ways that really count? People who practice giving with the right spirit and in ways that really count are truly happy. It leads to domestic joy and contentment as well as meaningful relationships with others and you need never fear that freely giving will lead to any lack on your part. Practical gifts, too, can be inexpensive.
Spirit of giving must extend beyond the circle of one's family and friends; and it must be practiced from day to day, not just at certain times of the year.It becomes possible to enjoy many opportunities throughout the year for delighting persons with presents that they did not expect. Since it is not a matter of exchange, a person does not feel "shortchanged" if he does not receive a gift. And any necessary shopping can be done with a single individual in mind and at a time when stores are less crowded.
