Give them memories instead of things this holiday

Talking to a friend how she acquired stuff over time inspired an observation about presents. They are so much fun to get, but sometimes even desired and appreciated gift items turn into clutter years later. It made me think of gifts I received over the years for holidays and birthdays. I’ve been lucky to receive many wonderful presents, but I realized that what sticks out the most in my memory are not so much the objects I’ve received, despite how excited I was at the time, but I do remember gifts of experiences.

 

When I was in grade school, my parents started a birthday tradition of taking me to shows instead of buying me birthday gifts. It became an annual treat that was a big deal for me growing up. I’m not sure if that spurred my aunt and uncle to take me to a basketball in lieu of a birthday present one year, since they knew I was a huge basketball fan. Regardless, I loved it! They continued the tradition until I moved out of town for college. I still treasure the memories of enjoying those shows and games, and sharing them with my relatives.

 

December is a month where there’s a lot of holiday gift-giving. If you’re looking for something different for your family/friends, or have been asked what’s on your own wish list, consider tickets to a performance, sports events, or other entertainment. Other non-thing gift ideas are: feel-good treatments such as spa services or massage, making donations to charity in honor of your loved ones, gift certificates for classes in cooking, learning a new language, pottery — the list can go on forever. Of course, you should make sure the gifts given are what your loved ones will use and appreciate. If my siblings got tickets to any pro basketball games, they surely wouldn’t be jumping up and down with excitement as I would.

 

What was the best non-object gift you’ve ever received during the holiday season?

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