Be a better gift giver
by Gina Prohhorov
of Sun.Star Cebu
No matter what economic crisis we have, the Filipinos are one of the best in celebrating Christmas.
It cannot be without all the gift-givings going around. You see the advanced and the last minute shopping.
If you were one of those who were into the last minute shopping, then it is about time to prepare in advance. You may not necessarily have the money right now but start making your list and start looking around.
I know that most lists now would be much shorter but still one can prepare more valuable gifts than just the hankies, picture frames and the photo albums.
In fact, it is better not to buy right away but to scout around first. Compare all aspects—the quality of the material, the sizes, the colors and the prices, of course.
Think of what your loved ones really need most so your gift will not just be staying in the cabinet the whole of 2006. Besides people these days need things which, on their own, they would not buy because they too have other priorities more than themselves. So this is where you will make a difference. You can get to touch his heart by giving something that he longs to have.
Personalized gift items are always a favorite. Spiritual gift items are seldom given but are much needed. Even kids deserve to get the children’s Bible with all the colored pictures which could help them appreciate and understand Jesus.
There are stores that sell unique items which requires that you really to take time to look around.
Thus, if you want to be a better gift giver now, then you must not only find the time but must MAKE the time to do this. This is only once a year so make the most of it. Your bonus only comes once, maximize it. If you want to give a gift to somebody you think deserves it, then choose a valuable one for him.
Be guided by your list. Even when you make the list, you have to take time to really choose who deserves a gift and classify. Perhaps separate those you think would love to get a personal home made card. (Oh , yes I know of some who shed a river of tears when they get one!) Choose those who may love to get a home-made set of cookies or brownies. Choose those who deserve gifts from the religious stores or commercial stores, or hardwares, etc.
Do not just prepare a gift because you know they are preparing one for you. In fact, that is why I am writing this article so you still have time to start planning. If you know that you will not have the budget to buy from the stores, then plan out something which would not cost much like getting plants from your garden or writing them a special letter of gratitude. Well, there are still many ways. Just be creative. What counts is the thought of Christmas.
Do not forget to give to those who really are indigent. Let the whole family separate the things that they cannot use anymore and bring the boxes to the Carmelites or to the Church. Those things which you do not use anymore are the things which are badly needed by many poor ones.
Be fulfilled this Christmas. Do more than what you usually do every season like this!
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