Subject: RE: Christmas gift gripeI kinda think the whole gift giving thing has gotten to be a bit much. My office has a gift exchange and usually the gifts are well...interesting to say the least. Given that most people in the office don't know each other too well, it's difficult to come up with a present. I feel like giving presents should be reserved for people you know well and not really expected...like the boss giving everyone some random object while we all pretend to be excited about it.
My mom's best friend has known me since I was born. Despite all sorts of attempts to discourage her, even direct requests, she INSISTS on giving my sisters and I presents each year. In 26 years she has yet to come with a present that came even remotely close to something I'd like...even when I give her suggestions. My mom would tell us "it's the thought that counts."...however, giving a gift for the sake of giving one with no thought at all is just stupid.
I think unless you have some close personal relationship with someone and can think of something that you know they'd appreciate, then you shouldn't be giving them presents. If you have to...go for something like a starbucks or best buy gift card...nice and generic and involing no real present selection on your part.
Ok...sorry for ranting...just drives me nuts to smile and pretend to be excited over obviously thoughtless gifts. And for the record...I am not a fan of beagles or afghan hounds. |