My proposal: Don't spend money during the Holidays if it is beyond your means

[petra7bat]

I hope that you are doing well, and in good health and finances.  I wish to make a proposal to you, and if it sounds like something you can advocate, then please do forward to your closest friends and family.  If you think it is bunk, simply delete it. 

I assume, and do correct me if I am wrong, that the upcoming Holidays tend to bring stress upon many in the US [for those of you outside of the US, please reply and verify/correct me];  If the Holiday season is going to bring a financial burden upon you because you feel that you must spend money on gifts, I am proposing that you ease yourself of the unnecessary burden, and not spend beyond your means just because of the season.  Better yet, do not purchase any gifts.  In my opinion, the exchange of gifts should neither be extravagant, nor the all-encompassing reason for bringing people together. 

 I propose that one focus instead on gathering together to enjoy each other's companionship and good food that one can afford and/or create dishes oneself [some examples of this: bake cupcakes, brownies, a pie, cookies, and bring them to the holiday location, or package them individually and I'm sure they will be thoroughly enjoyed].  Think to yourself for a moment:  how would you feel if someone handed you an individually-wrapped cupcake baked fresh for you? {hold that feeling until you can describe it!]

 In other words, share what you can with whom you wish to, without focusing on the exchange of material items and/or monetary gifts.  For example, at my house, I ask my boys (all 5 of them) what they'd like to enjoy for breakfast/lunch/dinner/dessert during the holiday times.  I do not purchase gifts for them and have not in the past few years.  I ask for a list of meal suggestions and work from there.  They don't hate me for that.  I can sense appreciation for the work I do.  And love.  So; appreciation and love should be the focus.

 Spend good quality time with those you love and cherish and make sure to let them know that you choose to focus on the importance of spending time together, during the holidays especially, and on expressing love and joy to be in their presence.

 Work also on extending these beliefs and traditions throughout the year, not just waiting for 'holiday' time.

 Be blessed and be a blessing to others, continue to share, and love and give.  Thanks for reading.

[homemommie]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 3:11 PM

I think that is awesome. Unfortunately, people are too afraid of what other think about them and still have this never ending cycle of gift giving. To me, the most important part of the holidays is being with the ones you love.

[doodlebug814]

Dec. 11, 2009 at 4:57 PM