Rewards of Change

The Rewards of Changing Our Gift-Giving Patterns

Last November I wrote to some people on our gift exchange list... special people whom I didn't want to forget. I sensed that it was time to move past gift exchanging and onto something more meaningful.

To my sister we suggested giving a monetary gift to a charity in their name. I wasn't sure how it would be received. I knew that gift giving was significant to her but we were relying on her similar social justice values. Well, she was thrilled.

Dear ____

I've been giving much thought to the essence of the holidays. Remembering friends, celebrating Jesus' birthday, creating happy memories for children... these seem to be the ideals that Greg and I share. Greg has encouraged me to evaluate our activities in light of these values. When I prioritize, remembering special friends stays at the top, but mailing packages falls way down the list. It seems to be harder to coordinate each year.

I've enjoyed exchanging Christmas presents with you for a long time. But the essence of it is taking time to remember a special person in my life. Do you ever have similar feelings? Could we start a new tradition? How about a few relaxing minutes with a hot cup of tea... no distractions... time for warm memories. I promise to call sometime during the holiday season.

Above all, we've been friends a long time. It's a friendship I treasure, and hope that we will always be friends.

Take care. I'll talk to you soon.

Love, Cathy

My friend wrote back and enclosed a couple of pictures taken while we were on a vacation together two years after high school graduation. She expressed the hope that I would return the pictures to her with a couple of my own old favorites. What a great new tradition!

Cathy & Greg Clarity, Blountville TN

Voluntary Simplicity Life Principle #2: Nurture people... relationships, not things.

This page last updated 20 October 2012

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