Christmas is traditionally a mirthful holiday, and this year should be no different, I presume. With friends and family mingling and gifts exchanged between the two bundles of people, it’s a time when everything just seems to come together. There are sales around every corner and discounts for the first 500 customers at Dolce & Gabbana. With all the good shopping during the holiday season, Christmas consumers must know where to go and when, as well as how much to spend and what card to use. The running around and purchasing may seem arduous, and the lines for the register may only trudge along, but in the end, all Christmas shoppers know that it’s worth it to see that look on their loved ones’ faces when they give them that perfect present.
Growing up, my parents instilled in me the Christian teachings of their parents, which can be demonstrated easily throughout the cheerful holiday term. As a little boy, I remember each Christmas, looking under the tree to find some of the most glorious presents of my youth: an extravagant Lego set of King Arthur’s castle, remote control cars and, as I grew older, floorfuls of warm Ralph Lauren polo sweaters. With age came affirmation, and I realized that the as the gift prices grew higher, so did my parents’ love for my sister and me. Not that they were buying us off, nor my family being sucked into the black hole of materialism; my family was very thankful. My family’s Christian standpoint of buying brand name items echoed throughout my childhood into my later years, and, with the help of the internet, has made it easier than ever to show my friends and family how much I care. Now that Ralph and Calvin, Burberry and Tiffany are emailing me daily, I too can show the true spirit of the season and give to those around me. The bonus? No time, no thought, no effort. Giving is just a click away.
Getting money in cards is always nice, but seems the route of a safer bet, a cop-out in way. For the more decisive among us, use that money, instead of for ordinary gift giving, for extraordinary purchases that put your heart out there for all to see. I have been the recipient of the Money Card, and I know first-hand that I would have preferred a present from the senders. I understand I am to be grateful of what I receive, that being another piece of my Christian upbringing, but to me, gifts are personal. Is it too much to want a personal gift from a loved one? They are more than just boxes wrapped in glittering paper. In true Christmas spirit, I feel everyone should receive these geometric love showcases. I mean, just anybody can give money.
As you swing through the revolving doors of your local mall, please remember the right thing to do. Don’t visit the overwhelming, chaotic and plain department stores, go to the next level: Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Coach. Last year, I bought all of my family’s gifts at Saks Fifth Ave; no one returned a thing! I cannot guarantee your family will do the same, but there is very little chance of them bringing back great brand name gifts like a brushed steel pocket watch by Rolex or a Burberry scarf.
Hand-made gifts are often creative, but normally do not match the practicality of the Versace’s new winter jacket line. If you do choose to make your presents, however, be sure to visit the mall beforehand. There are big name stores that specialize in wood and leather; stores like these can sell you the best mahogany, most durable sterling or softest leather from names like Mistarsch and Colibri of London. This way, you can give both your creativity and your affection to your loved ones during the season.
Joy to the world; let everyone embrace the Christmas spirit. Let us rejuvenate the cheerless; let us transform money into love as Jesus, the focal point of Christmas after all, once converted water into wine.