After long years of gifting and receiving gifts, I guess I have a gifting mentality now. Some people see a gift as an object that speaks for itself, others go deeper than that in their choices and they tend to pick up what they think is the most meaningful caring gift with special criteria. I think it is healthy to travel between these two boundaries rather than taking a side, always leave your options open, if you can't think of a sentimental gift, you can gift something that says "I remembered you and I wanted to give you something thoughtful in this special day!".
Whoever said this "the idea of gifting itself is what really matters, the content of the gift isn't as important" must be warmly thanked. Only because sometimes we are surprised with some awkward moments where we get lost, our brain can't process any useful thought anymore, those couple of minutes where we don't know what are we searching for, as for me I get some headache beside the getting lost part, just then we tend to believe-in this idea, support it and admit how wise and relieving it is. Then, we run to pick up the first shining item from the shelf.
I hate to feel that the recipient of my gift didn't like what I spend time, effort and money on, but who said that we should always be Mr. And Mrs. Perfect gift givers?! I know I don't want to be the opposite, like the person with the worst gifts record, but somewhere between the two is good.
Exchanging gifts is a healthy practice for all kind of relationships. Searching for a gift makes you spend time thinking of that person, what he/she likes and needs. Technically you are trying hard to gift that person happiness, even for couple of minutes. I mean that, you may be spending a whole day searching for the gift that will ensure you the gratitude smile.
Relationships are hard enough to maintain, the extra pressure of "delicate gifting" isn't really welcomed. When you want to gift someone, always think of something you would like to have it yourself. Choose your gift with love, it shows. And, if you were on the other side, receiving gifts, always show gratitude to whoever spent a second searching for something to make you smile, "they tried!". People who cares deserve to be appreciated, when they send love and care, love and care should be showered back at them.
The most inappropriate gift I ever had was an elegant lighter. I don't smoke! Sender: Friend.
The best gift I ever had was my kids, sender: God. A SAHM in Dubai
