"There's a very particular phrase that circulates as Christmas approaches, usually delivered over a glass of wine: Shall we just not do presents this year? This is almost always suggested by people who already own everything. The sort of people who, if they fancy a new coffee Thermos at 8:42am, simply buy one. Socks? Ordered. Pyjamas? Bought in October. Candles? Seventeen already, none ever lit. These are also the people who believe a 10 gift is radical generosity."
"For normal people, those who don't replace headphones the moment they crack, or buy new jumpers because the old ones feel tired, Christmas presents aren't chores, they're events. We notice things, such as Mum mentioned she likes that tea, Dad's gloves are falling apart, she'd never buy herself that scarf. Christmas is the time when those small, thoughtful luxuries become possible. The candle isn't unnecessary, the pyjamas aren't a waste, the socks aren't just socks, they're a sign that someone noticed."
A divide exists between people who treat a no-present Christmas as sensible and those who see gifts as important markers of attention. Some people already own many things and can easily buy desired items at any time, so skipping presents feels natural to them. Other people value the act of noticing needs and desires—small gifts like socks, pyjamas, candles or a favourite tea become tangible signs that someone paid attention. For these people, giving and receiving chosen, wrapped presents is a cherished ritual that adds emotional value beyond monetary cost.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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